Commentary on the Book of Matthew (Vol.2)

《 Commentary on the Book of Matthew (Vol.2) 》

Matthew Chapter Fifteen

I. Content of the Chapter

The Lord Jesus Turned to Show Grace to the Gentiles I. Judaists came to query the Lord for their tradition of the elders and did not submit to His words (v.1-20). II. The Lord departed to the region of the Gentiles and healed the daughter of the woman of Canaan and many sick persons (v.21-31). III. The Lord had filled four thousand people by seven loaves and a few little fish and took up seven large baskets full of the fragments (v.32-39).

II. Verse by Verse commentary

Matt. 15:1 “Then the scribes and Pharisees who were from Jerusalem came to Jesus, saying,” YLT: “Then come unto Jesus do they from Jerusalem scribes and Pharisees saying,” Literal Meaning: “the scribes and Pharisees” “Pharisees” were those who emphasized on letters of the Law in Judaism and they considered themselves that they were separated (the meaning of Pharisees) from others. “The scribes” were those who specially transcribed the Law and taught the Law. Usually the Jews called them “rabbi”. Most of the scribes were the Pharisees. However, not all the Pharisees are scribes. “ Who were from Jerusalem came to Jesus” “Jerusalem” is the center of religion and politics of the Jews. They came far away from Jerusalem to find Jesus because they thought the words and deeds of Jesus and His disciples had gone against the teachings of Judaism. Spiritual Meaning: “the scribes and Pharisees” symbolizes all the religious believers all over the world, including formalist Christians. “Jerusalem” symbolizes the root of all religions.

Matt. 15:2 “‘Why do Your disciples transgress the tradition of the elders? For they do not wash their hands when they eat bread.’” YLT: “`Wherefore do thy disciples transgress the tradition of the elders? for they do not wash their hands when they may eat bread.’” The Background: “the tradition of the elders” was the annotations and extensions in meaning towards the Law of Moses by famous Law-teachers throughout all ages. These had been preserved in an oral manner and kept strictly by the Pharisees. According to the Law of Moses, priests have to wash their hands and their feet before they enter into the temple to serve (Exod. 30:19). However, the supplementary teachings preserved in oral had extent the commandment towards priests to the details of life of common people, lest men touch unclean things (such as dead body, dead cattle and unclean animals). Therefore they are asked to wash their hands when eating bread. Rabbis always said, “The holy people (Israel) who live in the holy land (Canaan) must speak holy language (Hebrew language) and eat holy food (washing their hands).” Literal Meaning: “For they do not wash their hands when they eat bread.” The washing hands that they advocate of is not for cleaning but a religious ceremony. Enlightenment in the Word: 1) Today Christianity had accumulated much tradition in the past two thousand years. However it is not obligatory for Christians to obey the tradition. 2) If we stress on the outward regulations and ways, we may become current scribes and Pharisees.

Matt. 15:3 “He answered and said to them, ‘Why do you also transgress the commandment of God because of your tradition?” YLT: “And he answering said to them, `Wherefore also do ye transgress the command of God because of your tradition?” Literal Meaning: because they “taught as doctrines the commandment of men” (See v.9), tradition of men was treated higher than commandment of God. Moreover, they abolished commandment of God by tradition of men. They transgressed the commandment of God because of tradition of men. Enlightenment in the Word: 1) Today many Christians and Catholics neglect many words of God because of keeping the tradition of their assembly. 2) If men add men’s words to God’s words, probably as a result men will transgress the words of God. 3) In the eyes of the Lord, it is not serious to go against teachings of men who is of spiritual and religionists (the tradition of the elders). It is indeed serious to transgress the words of God (the commandment of God). 4) What Christians should obey is God’s words. Any doctrine or teaching should not replace God’s words.

Matt. 15:4 “For God commanded, saying, ‘Honor your father and your mother'; and, ‘He who curses father or mother, let him be put to death.'” YLT: “for God did command, saying, Honour thy father and mother; and, He who is speaking evil of father or mother let him die the death;” Meaning of Words: “curses”: speak evil of, insult, revile. Literal Meaning: “let him be put to death.” There are “death” and “die” in original and the “die” means to be ended. The whole sentence means “by death, let him die”. Enlightenment in the Word: 1) “Honor your father and your mother” is the first commandment about interpersonal relationship. Father and mother are the origin of children and this symbolizes that God is the origin of men. God’s intention is to let us honor God by honoring one’s father and mother. 2) It is shown that anyone who curses father or mother must have some problem with God and the result is spiritual death (See Rom. 8:6).

Matt. 15:5 “But you say, ‘Whoever says to his father or mother, ‘Whatever profit you might have received from me is a gift to God’--” YLT: “but ye say, Whoever may say to father or mother, An offering [is] whatever thou mayest be profited by me;” The Background: “a gift” is a dedication with a vow of treasure and it originates from Jephthah’s vow (See Judg. 11:29-40). This kind of dedication with a vow was also called “corban”. The father or mother did not have right to use what had been appointed as “corban” by the owner (See Mark. 7:11). Literal Meaning: “is a gift” means “whatever has been given to God nominally is not allowed to be used by others”. Matt. 15:6 “then he need not honor his father or mother.' Thus you have made the commandment of God of no effect by your tradition.” YLT: “and he may not honour his father or his mother, and ye did set aside the command of God because of your tradition.” The Background: some unworthy Judaic believers usually made use of lawful quiddity and vowed a vow to dedicate his family property for the use of the holy temple in order to evade the responsibility to support parents. They regarded themselves as the supervisors of the property and still used the property as usual. Spiritual Meaning: “religion of men’s willing” is to abolish “the commandment of God”------God’s words, seasonable words, spirit of truth and everlastingly fresh enlightenments by “tradition of the elders”------words of great men, traditional concepts, vain ceremonies and pedantic conservations. Enlightenment in the Word: 1) Pay what is God’s to God, and what is men’s to men. If someone covers his unfilial behaviors by dedication, he makes use of religion to do evil or to cover his evilness. 2) God’s glory is not established on others’ pain. Loving God and loving parents are in complete accord. Religion and morality are inseparable. 3) If one only walks according to regulations, consequently he may go against the intention of God’s words completely (the Law).

Matt. 15:7 “Hypocrites! Well did Isaiah prophesy about you, saying:” YLT: “`Hypocrites, well did Isaiah prophesy of you, saying,” Meaning of Words: “Hypocrites”: acting, performance. The Background: “hypocrites” originates from actors on stage who speak under masks to hide their true features so as to play an assumed character vividly. Literal Meaning: “well did Isaiah prophesy of you, saying,” The words in v.8-9 are quoted from Is. 29:13. Enlightenment in the Word: 1) There have been hypocrites among God’s people since ancient times. It is especially so today. 2) Hypocrisy is not indeed bad but falsely good. However the falsely goodness is even worse. Matt. 15:8 “‘These people draw near to Me with their mouth, And honor Me with their lips, But their heart is far from Me.” YLT: “This people doth draw nigh to Me with their mouth, and with the lips it doth honour Me, but their heart is far off from Me;” Literal Meaning: the feature of religious believers is that they only have the appearance instead of the reality of worshiping God. This condition is shown in that he says what he does not mean: they speak logically and clearly. They only worship God with their mouth but not honor God in their hearts. Enlightenment in the Word: 1) God is a spirit, and who worship Him must worship in spirit and truth (See John. 4:24). The most important thing in worshiping God is one’s heart instead of only lips. 2) The Lord not only sits down on the right hand of the Majesty on high (Heb. 1:3) but also dwells in our hearts (Eph. 3:17). Therefore what the heavenly people should pay attention to is not the outward ways but the inner real state (See Rom. 2:28-29).

Matt. 15:9 “And in vain they worship Me, Teaching as doctrines the commandment of men.’” YLT: “and in vain do they worship Me, teaching teachings commands of men.’” Literal Meaning: “Teaching as doctrines the commandment of men”. In this way, men’s opinions replace God’s will and men’s views replace God’s revelations. What they pay attention is not how God speaks but how men speak. Enlightenment in the Word: 1) Those that say one thing but mean another thing (See v.8) specially stress that how others think and speak instead of that how God thinks and speaks. It’s no wonder in vain they worship God. 2) “In vain they worship Me.” It shows that worshiping is not always effective and in some cases worshiping may be in vain. 3) It could not satisfy the Lord’s hearts if one holds high spiritual giants and worships and serves according to their instructions.

Matt. 15:10 “When He had called the multitude to Himself, He said to them, "Hear and understand:” YLT: “And having called near the multitude, he said to them, `Hear and understand:” Enlightenment in the Word: 1) What the Lord had said to others is also said to us ------“the multitude”. 2) It is in vain for us to hear but not understand. We should pray to the Lord for ears of hearing and hearts of understanding (See Matt. 13-16).

Matt. 15:11 “Not what goes into the mouth defiles a man; but what comes out of the mouth, this defiles a man.’” YLT: “not that which is coming into the mouth doth defile the man, but that which is coming forth from the mouth, this defileth the man.’” Literal Meaning: “not what goes into the mouth defiles a man;” “what goes into he mouth”: food (See v.17); “defiles a man”: making some “common and unclean” (See Acts. 11:8), i.e. not making someone be “sanctified” (See John. 17:19). “What comes out of the mouth, this defiles a man.” “What comes out of the mouth”: thoughts, words and behaviors come out of men’s hearts (See v.18-19). The scribes and Pharisees originally talked about the problem of clean by “washing hands” (See v.2). Now the Lord Jesus interrogated the problem by “food” to talk about what was indeed clean. The uncleanness in letters is insignificant. What’s significant is the uncleanness in morality. Enlightenment in the Word: 1) Religious believers only have physical concepts and ideas of letters instead of spiritual sight. Anyone with spiritual sight knows that the true uncleanness is evil ideas in men’s hearts instead of the impropriety of food and religious ceremonies. 2) In the life in the heavenly kingdom, the uncleanness is not outward but inner appearance, not physical but spiritual.

Matt. 15:12 “Then His disciples came and said to Him, ‘Do You know that the Pharisees were offended when they heard this saying?’” YLT: “Then his disciples having come near, said to him, `Hast thou known that the Pharisees, having heard the word, were stumbled?’” Literal Meaning: “the Pharisees were offended when they heard this saying.” “Offended” shows that they thought the Lord’s words had “offended” them. Enlightenment in the Word: 1) One is unable to hear others’ words with prejudice. 2) Those who live in the visibly material realm are unable to receive the teachings of spiritual things.

Matt. 15:13 “But He answered and said, ‘Every plant which My Heavenly Father has not planted will be uprooted.” YLT: “And he answering said, `Every plant that my Heavenly Father did not plant shall be rooted up;” The Background: the Pharisees considered themselves that they were planted by God (See Is. 60:21). Literal Meaning: “every plant”: every tree in original. “Which My Heavenly Father has not planted”: that has been planted by men. This verse has two meanings: 1) the Pharisees; 2) teachings and ways of the Pharisees. “Will be uprooted.” “Tradition of the elders” (See v.2) and “commandment of men” (See v.9) are all planted by men and they will be uprooted by God one day. Spiritual Meaning: which the Heavenly Father has planted are words of God (See Mark. 4:14) and men of God (See Matt. 13:38, 1Cor. 3:9). Enlightenment in the Word: 1) Those who are not chosen by God have neither part nor lot in heavenly kingdom. 2) If our service and work is not of God, it will be of no value one day. 3) Men’s heretical teachings will be uprooted by God some day.

Matt. 15:14 “Let them alone. They are blind leaders of the blind. And if the blind leads the blind, both will fall into a ditch.’” YLT: “let them alone, guides they are blind of blind; and if blind may guide blind, both into a ditch shall fall.’” Literal Meaning: “they are blind leaders of the blind.” The blind leaders are the scribes and Pharisees and the blind are the ignorant common people (See Rom. 2:19). Their thoughts all have been blinded by the god of this world, so that they cannot see the light of the glad tidings of the glory of Christ (See 2Cor. 4:3-4). Enlightenment in the Word: 1) God’s strategy to those persist in their opinions and obstinately adhere to error is to “let them alone” (See Rom. 1:28). 2) Christians could only help those “who are deceived by heretical teachings” and help them wake up to reality. Christians should not think about helping those “who preach heretical teachings”. To latter ones, we should “let them alone”. 3) Anyone who is unable to discern who is of men or of God is spiritually blind. 4) “They are blind leaders of the blind.” Ignorant ones like to be teachers of others. Those who do not understand the will of God like to preach God’s will to others. 5) Those who have not received revelations do work without revelations and consequently the leader and those who are led all fall into hopeless straits and despair (“fall into a ditch”).

Matt. 15:15 “Then Peter answered and said to Him, ‘Explain this parable to us.’” YLT: “And Peter answering said to him, `Explain to us this simile.’” Literal Meaning: “this parable” is the word of v.11 instead of the word of v.13- 14.

Matt. 15:16 “So Jesus said, ‘Are you also still without understanding?” YLT: “And Jesus said, `Are ye also yet without understanding?” Enlightenment in the Word: our hearts are too senseless and slow and therefore we should ask the Lord to open our understanding to “understand” His words (See Luke. 24:25, 45).

Matt. 15:17 “Do you not yet understand that whatever enters the mouth goes into the stomach and is eliminated?” YLT: “do ye not understand that all that is going into the mouth doth pass into the belly, and into the drain is cast forth?” Literal Meaning: this verse shows that “whatever enters the mouth” is food.

Matt. 15:18 “But those things which proceed out of the mouth come from the heart, and they defile a man.” YLT: “but the things coming forth from the mouth from the heart do come forth, and these defile the man;” Literal Meaning: “and they defile a man” “And” is the tone with emphasis in original. Enlightenment in the Word: the Lord’s attention is not on material things but spiritual things. Health counts for little. However, the uncleanness of men’s hearts counts for much. Matt. 15:19 “For out of the heart proceed evil thoughts, murders, adulteries, fornications, thefts, false witness, blasphemies.” YLT: “for out of the heart come forth evil thoughts, murders, adulteries, whoredoms, thefts, false witnessings, evil speakings:” Literal Meaning: “evil thoughts”: evil schemes, the beginning of all men’s sins. “ Murders, adulteries, fornications, false witness” “murders” are against the sixth commandment; “adulteries, fornications” are against the seventh commandment; “thefts” are against the eighth commandment; “false witness” are against the ninth commandment (See Exod. 20:13-16). “Blasphemies”: the behaviors that someone slanders others’ reputations with words. Enlightenment in the Word: the heart is deceitful above all things and desperately wicked (Jer. 17:9) and therefore it need to be cleansed with the washing of water by the Lord’s word (Eph. 5:26).

Matt. 15:20 “These are the things which defile a man, but to eat with unwashed hands does not defile a man.’” YLT: “these are the things defiling the man; but to eat with unwashen hands doth not defile the man.’” Enlightenment in the Word: uncleanness of men’s hearts is the root of all evil and uncleanness.

Matt. 15:21 “Then Jesus went out from there and departed to the region of Tyre and Sidon.” YLT: “And Jesus having come forth thence, withdrew to the parts of Tyre and Sidon,” Literal Meaning: “there” is the land of Gennesaret (See Mark. 14:34). “Tyre and Sidon” are port cities in the Mediterranean on the north of the Sea of Galilee and in the region of Phoenicia (Lebanon right now) which had been cursed by God (See Is. 23, Joel. 3:4). Spiritual Meaning: “the region of Tyre and Sidon” is the land of Gentiles. They symbolize the circumstances which are far away from religious sphere of influence. Enlightenment in the Word: the Lord would rather depart to the places which had been cursed by God than be with the hypocritical Pharisees. The Lord would rather show mercy to publicly-known sinners than badger with secret sinners.

Matt. 15:22 “And behold, a woman of Canaan came from that region and cried out to Him, saying, ‘Have mercy on me, O Lord, Son of David! My daughter is severely demon-possessed.’” YLT: “and lo, a woman, a Canaanitess, from those borders having come forth, did call to him, saying, `Deal kindly with me, Sir Son of David; my daughter is miserably demonized.’” Literal Meaning: “a woman of Canaan.” “Women of Canaan” are pronoun of “the Gentiles” who are despised by the Jews. She was a Greek, Syrophenician by race (See Mark. 7:26). “ The Son of David” is the pronoun of “the Messiah” who is only related to Israel (See v.24). It is wrong for the woman of Canaan to call the Lord “the Son of David”. Spiritual Meaning: “a woman of Canaan” represents the Gentiles who want to receive the Lord with their hearts. “ My daughter is severely demon-possessed.” She gave birth to her “daughter”, showing that life and behaviors that are of natural and flesh life are bound and controlled by the devil (See 1John. 5:19).

Matt. 15:23 “But He answered her not a word. And His disciples came and urged Him, saying, ‘Send her away, for she cries out after us.’” YLT: “And he did not answer her a word; and his disciples having come to him, were asking him, saying ‘Let her away, because she crieth after us;’” Literal Meaning: “But He answered her not a word” because the woman of Canaan called Him “the Son of David” (See v.22). She prayed to the Lord, standing in the wrong position. “ Send her away, for she cries our after us.” The disciples thought that the woman of Canaan was troublesome and therefore they asked the Lord to send her away, lest she may keep clacking. Enlightenment in the Word: 1) If we pray wrongly, the Lord would “answer us not a word”. 2) He has His intention if the Lord has not answered our prayers. If we are able to learn with hearts, we will learn spiritual lessons from failing prayers.

Matt. 15:24 “But He answered and said, ‘I was not sent except to the lost sheep of the house of Israel.’” YLT: “and he answering said, `I was not sent except to the lost sheep of the house of Israel.’” Literal Meaning: “the house of Israel”: the descendants of Jacob, they are God’s elect. “The lost sheep”: Israel originally was of God. But they all like sheep have gone astray and they have turned every one to his own way (See Is. 53:6). The Lord here indicated to the woman of Canaan that the name “the Son of David” is especially for “the lost sheep of the house of Israel”. Spiritual Meaning: “sheep” typifies that Israel is of God and they are fed and taken care of by God. “The lost sheep” symbolizes that Israel has been out of God’s intentions and are lost in outward letters, words and methods. Enlightenment in the Word: 1) Words of the Lord imply that the condition to receive grace is to confess oneself as “the lost sheep”. Anyone who is confident in himself and considers himself always right is hard to receive the salvation of the Lord. 2) The Lord shows mercy to men according to men’s true knowledge towards Him and themselves.

Matt. 15:25 “Then she came and worshiped Him, saying, ‘Lord, help me!’” YLT: “And having come, she was bowing to him, saying, `Sir, help me;’” Literal Meaning: note that here she called the Lord “Lord”, showing that she had understood the words of the Lord and prayed to “the Savior of all men” (1Tim. 4:10).

Matt. 15:26 “But He answered and said, ‘It is not good to take the children's bread and throw it to the little dogs.’” YLT: “and he answering said, `It is not good to take the children`s bread, and to cast to the little dogs.’” The Background: in ancient times the Jews called the Gentiles “dogs”. It was originally a scornful appellation but later it became a pet phrase, just like Chinese people call the while race “foreign devils”. Literal Meaning: “throw it to the little dogs.” “Dogs” in original are “young puppies” that are fed in the house as pets of family members and playmates of children. It shows that: 1) the dogs are related to the lord of the house; 2) the lord is responsible to feed them; 3) children should take bread first and then the dogs; 4) children eat what is on the table and dogs eat what falls from the table. Spiritual Meaning: “the children’s bread” typifies that the Lord is the bread of life (John. 6:35); “children” typifies the Jews, especially “the lost sheep of the house of Israel” (See v.24); “dogs” typifies the Gentiles. The Lord Jesus here didn’t despise the woman of Canaan but showed the relative importance and order of His ministry by this------He originally came to show His salvation to the Jews and then to the Gentiles. Enlightenment in the Word: 1) The Lord Jesus came into the world as “bread” that has come down out of the heaven and made men live by eating Him (See John. 6:51). 2) Believers should do all things decently and in order (See 1Cor. 14:40). We should not do according with our wishes and things we like to do.

Matt. 15:27 “And she said, ‘Yes, Lord, yet even the little dogs eat the crumbs which fall from their masters' table.’” YLT: “And she said, `Yes, sir, for even the little dogs do eat of the crumbs that are falling from their lords’table;’” Literal Meaning: she seized the Lord’s words------“little dogs” and humbly admitted that she was only a little dog. However she boldly declared that the “dog in the house” (the meaning of little dogs in original) belonged to the lord and it had the right to eat crumbs which children do no need any more. Please note that the Lord Jesus departed to the region of Tyre and Sidon because He was rejected by the Jews (See v.21) and therefore He was like the “crumbs” which fell from the masters’ table. Enlightenment in the Word: 1) The woman of Canaan had not minded that the Lord compared her as “little dogs”. On the contrary, she was willing to stand in the position of “little dogs” and prayed to the Lord and finally she received the grace of the Lord (See v.28). God sets Himself against proud, but to humble gives grace (See James. 4:6, 1Pet. 5:5). 2) The condition of a prayer to be answered is to seize the words that the Lord had said before as a handle and prayed to Him------it can still be considered a good way to pray with words that the Lord had spoken in the Bible. 3) When learning to pray, believers should not ask for great matters in the beginning and we should start by asking for “crumbs”. Matt. 15:28 “Then Jesus answered and said to her, ‘O woman, great is your faith! Let it be to you as you desire.’ And her daughter was healed from that very hour.” YLT: “then answering, Jesus said to her, `O woman, great [is] thy faith, let it be to thee as thou wilt;`and her daughter was healed from that hour.” Literal Meaning: “O, woman, great is your faith!” The dialogue between the woman of Canaan and the Lord shows that she truly and stubbornly regarded the Lord as the only salvation to her. Her attitude was the manifestation of faith and therefore the Lord praised that her faith was great. Spiritual Meaning: The daughter of the woman of Canaan was delivered from the devil. It typifies that because the Lord was rejected by the Jews He turned to the Gentiles so that Gentile believers received salvation (See Rom. 11:11). Enlightenment in the Word: 1) The true faith depends on the true knowledge of the Lord. The more we know Him, the more is our faith towards Him. 2) Believe that you receive them, and you shall receive them (Mark. 11:24). How much we enjoy the Lord’s power depends on our faith towards Him. 3) Anyone who is willing to humble himself and stands in the position where he is supposed to stand will be praised by the Lord. 4) According to this verse, her daughter was healed because the Lord’s word “Let it be to you as you desire.” However according to the context of this story, her daughter was healed because she had eaten the Lord as the “crumbs” of bread (See v.27) ------it is a good way to have a sound life by eating, drinking and enjoying the Lord.

Matt. 15:29 “Jesus departed from there, skirted the Sea of Galilee, and went up on the mountain and sat down there.” YLT: “And Jesus having passed thence, came nigh unto the sea of Galilee, and having gone up to the mountain, he was sitting there,” Literal Meaning: “skirted the Sea of Galilee.” Here it is the “Galilee of the Gentiles” (See Matt. 4:15) and Gentiles may be in the majority of the multitudes (See the notes in v.31). Spiritual Meaning: “went up on the mountain and sat down there” symbolizes that the Lord will draw all to Him if He was lifted up out of the earth (See John. 12:32).

Matt. 15:30 “Then great multitudes came to Him, having with them the lame, blind, mute, maimed, and many others; and they laid them down at Jesus' feet, and He healed them.” YLT: “and there came to him great multitudes, having with them lame, blind, dumb, maimed, and many others, and they did cast them at the feet of Jesus, and he healed them,”

Matt. 15:31 “So the multitude marveled when they saw the mute speaking, the maimed made whole, the lame walking, and the blind seeing; and they glorified the God of Israel.” YLT: “so that the multitudes did wonder, seeing dumb ones speaking, maimed whole, lame walking, and blind seeing; and they glorified the God of Israel.” Literal Meaning: “they glorified the God of Israel.” “The God of Israel” shows that they were gentiles (See Matt. 9:8). At that time there were many cities inhabited by gentiles all around the Sea of Galilee, especially on the east bank. Enlightenment in the Word: they glorified God: God has been manifested. Men eat the Lord to gain the Lord. On the negative side it would remove our weakness in our life (the sick were healed) and on the positive side it would let God be manifested from us (glorying God).

Matt. 15:32 “Now Jesus called His disciples to Himself and said, ‘I have compassion on the multitude, because they have now continued with Me three days and have nothing to eat. And I do not want to send them away hungry, lest they faint on the way.’” YLT: “And Jesus having called near his disciples, said, `I have compassion upon the multitude, because now three days they continue with me, and they have not what they may eat; and to let them away fasting I will not, lest they faint in the way.’” Enlightenment in the Word: 1) The Lord did not change the rock into bread for Himself when He had been hungry for forty days (See Matt. 4:1-4). He had compassion on the multitude when they were hungry for three days. The mind of Christ is to take care of others instead of Himself (See Pill. 2:4-5). 2) Eating the Lord is not a thing that could be done once and for all. We must eat, drink and enjoy the Lord day by day. 3) Every time men come to the Lord, they will be supplied, fed and filled by the Lord. 4) We are now on the way running to heavens. If we do not always eat the Lord, we will be weary and faint (See Heb. 12:1, 3).

Matt. 15:33 “Then His disciples said to Him, ‘Where could we get enough bread in the wilderness to fill such a great multitude?’” YLT: “And his disciples say to him, `Whence to us, in a wilderness, so many loaves, as to fill so great a multitude?’” Enlightenment in the Word: 1) If our eyes are only on circumstances (“the wilderness”), we will be short to meet the real and great need (“such a great multitude”). 2) Our eyes of faith should not be on ourselves or circumstances but on the Lord.

Matt. 15:34 “Jesus said to them, ‘How many loaves do you have?’ And they said, ‘Seven, and a few little fish.’” YLT: “And Jesus saith to them, `How many loaves have ye?`and they said, `Seven, and a few little fishes.’” Enlightenment in the Word: 1) “How many loaves do you have?” The Lord uses what we have instead of what we do not have to bless others. 2) No matter how poor or young we are, there must be something that we could dedicate to the Lord for His use.

Matt. 15:35 “So He commanded the multitude to sit down on the ground.” YLT: “And he commanded the multitudes to sit down upon the ground,” Enlightenment in the Word: in quietness and confidence shall be our strength (See Is. 30:15).

Matt. 15:36 “And He took the seven loaves and the fish and gave thanks, broke them and gave them to His disciples; and the disciples gave to the multitude.” YLT: “and having taken the seven loaves and the fishes, having given thanks, he did break, and gave to his disciples, and the disciples to the multitude.” Enlightenment in the Word: 1) If the loaves and fish have been kept whole, they cannot be the food of the multitude. If we have not been “broken” by the Lord, we cannot become others’ blessing. 2) “He gave them to His disciples; and the disciples gave to the multitude.” We should seek earnestly to be channels to deliver the Lord’s abundant grace. However, we are able to give something to others only after we have received something from the Lord.

Matt. 15:37 “So they all ate and were filled, and they took up seven large baskets full of the fragments that were left.” YLT: “And they did all eat, and were filled, and they took up what was over of the broken pieces seven baskets full,” Literal Meaning: “large baskets” are utensils to keep things. They are weaved by rush and canes and they were larger than the “baskets” (See Matt. 14:20). Spiritual Meaning: “they took up seven large baskets full of fragments that were left.” “Fragments” symbolizes that grace is surplus and abundant; “seven” is the number of perfectness in this age; “seven large baskets full of the fragments that were left” symbolizes that the Lord’s provision is more than sufficient. Things that were left after enjoyment are still abundant and perfect.

Matt. 15:38 “Now those who ate were four thousand men, besides women and children.” YLT: “and those eating were four thousand men, apart from women and children.” Spiritual Meaning: “four thousand men” “four” symbolizes creatures (See Rev. 4:7); here it means that the Lord’s provision is over all creatures.

Matt. 15:39 “And He sent away the multitude, got into the boat, and came to the region of Magdala.” YLT: “And having let away the multitudes, he went into the boat, and did come to the borders of Magdala.” Meaning of Words: “Magdala”: tower, greatness. Literal Meaning: “came to the region of Magdala,” “Magdala” is a district on the west bank of the Sea of Galilee. It is also called “Dalmanutha” (See Mark. 8:10) and its certain position is not clear.

III. Outlines of the Spiritual Lessons

The True Food of People of the King I. Religious believers mistook “the tradition of the elders” (words of men) for food: A. Every word which goes out through God’s mouth is what men should live by (See Matt. 4:4). 1. The scribes and Pharisees symbolize religious believers (v.1). 2. Religious believers are fervent in outward ways such as “washing hands”, showing that they live by “men’s words” (v.2). B. Phenomenon that religious believers eat by mistake: 1. They stressed on “tradition (men’s words)” more than “commandment of God (God’s words)” (v.3). 2. They transgressed “commandment of God (words of God)” because of “tradition (men’s words)” (v.4-6). 3. They taught as doctrines “the commandment of men”; their lips were for God and their hearts were not for God (v.7-9). C. The result of religious believers’ eating by mistake: 1. They do not have spiritual sight------they are unable to discern that what defiles a man is not the outward visible thing but the inner invisible thing (v. 10-11, 15-20). 2. They will be uprooted by the Heavenly Father------because they have not been planted by the Heavenly Father (v.12-13). 3. They fall into hopeless straits because their thoughts have been blinded------if the blind leads the blind, both will fall into a ditch (v.14). II. True believers have true food in the Lord’s words: A. They must have the true knowledge of the Lord: 1. The woman of Canaan typifies Gentile believers (v.21-v.22a). 2. She asked the Lord for help but called the Lord “the Son of David” wrongly (v.22b). 3. She knew that “the Son of David” belonged to “the house of Israel” from the Lord’s answer to the disciples and corrected herself to call the Lord “lord” (v.23-25). B. The knowledge of the Lord is the true food and one should know his own position: 1. She knew that the Lord was the “bread” (v.26, John. 6:35). 2. She also knew her own position as “little dogs” instead of “children” (v.26). C. She humbly stood in her own position and enjoyed Christ by faith: 1. She admitted that she was not “children” and though she was “little dogs”, she had the right to eat “the crumbs which fell from their masters’ tables” (v.27). 2. The Lord praised her that “great is her faith” (v.28a). D. The result of eating the Lord is to be healed: 1. The daughter of the woman of Canaan was delivered from the devil (v.28b). 2. The great multitudes all around the Sea of Galilee also typify Gentile believers and their various kinds of sickness were healed by the Lord (v.29-31). III. The Lord Himself in His words is the true food for men: A. We should eat, drink and enjoy the Lord day by day when running on the way to heavens, otherwise we may be weary on the way (v.32). B. “Seven loaves and a few little fish” typifies our life experience of the Lord (v.33-34). C. The way to eat, drink and enjoy the Lord: 1. Rest on the Lord’s words (v.35). 2. We should dedicate our life experience of the Lord to the Lord for His use------the Lord took (v.36a). 3. We should receive the Lord’s blessing and breaking------He gave thanks and broke them (v.36b). 4. The Lord’s servants should be the channels of His provision------He gave them to the disciples and the disciples gave to the multitude (v.36c). 5. We should cherish His grace and should not spoil His grace------they were filled and took up the fragments that were left (v.37a). D. The result of eating the Lord------bringing in the true building of the assembly: 1. The assembly is at measure of the statute of the fullness of Christ (See Eph. 4:12-13) ------they took up seven large baskets full of fragments (v.37b). 2. The assembly becomes the fullness of Him who fills all in all (See Eph. 1:23) ------“four thousand” presents all creatures (v.38). 3. The assembly is built for a habitation of God (See Eph. 2:21-22) ------“boat” symbolizes the assembly; “Magdala” means “tall building” (v.39).

They must Be Planted by the Heavenly Father I. The Pharisees and their teachings were not planted by the Heavenly Father (v.1-20). II. The faith of the woman of Canaan was planted by the Heavenly Father (v.21- 28). III. The Lord’s power of healing was planted by the Heavenly Father (v.29-31). IV. The Lord’s feed with love was planted by the Heavenly Father (v.32-39).

Four words in the Dialogue between the Lord and the Woman of Canaan I. He answered “not” a word. (v.23) ------the Lord would not answer the wrong supplication. II. I was “not” sent except… (v.24) ------the Lord does the will of Him and finishes His work (John. 4:34). III. It is “not” good to… (v.26) ------the Lord’s ministry has relative importance and order. IV. “Yes” (v.27) ------we should say “Amen” to the Lord’s words. We should trust and obey Him.

Matthew Chapter Sixteen

Spiritual Revelations I. The obstruction of heavenly revelations: A. False pursuit ------they asked for a sign (v.1-4). B. Slow understanding of hearts------they did not know the Lord’s words or remember His deeds (v.5-12). II. The procedure of heavenly revelations: A. Know that Jesus is the Christ, the Son of the Living God (v.13-17). B. Know the edification and authority of the church (v.18-20). C. Know that the way of cross is the way to be glorified (v.21-28).

Matt. 16:1 “Then the Pharisees and Sadducees came, and testing Him asked that He would show them a sign from heaven.” YLT: “And the Pharisees and Sadducees having come, tempting, did question him, to shew to them a sign from the heaven,” Meaning of Words: “sign”: indication. The Background: “the Pharisees” originally were a group of people who loved the country and were pious to God. Because the chief priest Simon was not for God, they separated from the Maccabean Party and therefore their rivals called them “the Pharisees” (it means “separation”). They tried their best to keep the Law and traditions and made themselves higher than common people. Therefore the word Pharisees became their religious aim. Because they stressed on the Law, gradually they inclined to appearance instead of the reality. They prayed on the crossing, enlarged the borders and looked up at heaven least they may see women. They were strict to others and obstinately clung to regulations. However their hearts were still corruptible and therefore later generations explained “the Pharisees” as “hypocrites”. “Sadducees” were the name of the High Priest Zadok in the age of Solomon. The latter generations called their party with this name. They opposed the behaviors of the Pharisees who only stressed on fervency and neglected morality. They stressed on moral behaviors and inclined to another extreme: they stressed on behaviors and neglected faith. They only received the Pentateuch and did not receive prophets or tradition. Therefore they did not believe in devils, angels, resurrection and other truths and they were indifferent to the kingdom of Messiah. They had high positions in politics and were rich. Annas the high priest and Caiaphas were Sadducees. They were the Pharisees’ rival. Moreover, they were the most vicious power against the assembly. Literal Meaning: “came, and testing Him” “testing” shows their unbelief towards the Lord. “Asked that He would show them a sign from heaven”: they wanted Him to prove that He was sent from God through signs. Spiritual Meaning: “the Pharisees” could symbolize conservative fundamentalism in Christianity. “Sadducees” symbolizes futuristic Liberalism in Christianity. Enlightenment in the Word: 1) The Pharisees and Sadducees were originally incompatible as fire and water. Now they actually associated together to come to tempt Jesus, showing that those who did not know the Lord did not have any principle. 2) Religious believers stressed on outward phenomenon and marks (“signs”) and neglected the inner connotation and reality. Matt. 16:2 “He answered and said to them, ‘When it is evening you say, ‘It will be fair weather, for the sky is red';” YLT: “and he answering said to them, `Evening having come, ye say, Fair weather, for the heaven is red,”

Matt. 16:3 “and in the morning, ‘It will be foul weather today, for the sky is red and threatening.' Hypocrites! You know how to discern the face of the sky, but you cannot discern the signs of the times.” YLT: “and at morning, Foul weather to-day, for the heaven is red gloomy; hypocrites, the face of the heavens indeed ye do know to discern, but the signs of the times ye are not able!” Literal Meaning: “the face of the sky”: the appearance of the sky. “The signs of the times” indicates that the indications manifested in the times shows that it was wicked and adulterous and its only need is Jesus who had died and had risen again (See v.4). Enlightenment in the Word: 1) Natural men only know to discern natural signs (“the face of the sky”) and couldn’t discern spiritual signs (“the sings of the times”) because they do not have spiritual sights (See 1Cor. 2:10-15). 2) On the spiritual way, sometimes it is “fair weather” (v.2) ------everything is peaceful and all right and it is full of the Lord’s presence and blessing. Sometimes it is “foul weather” ------Satan stirs up trouble and we continuously encounter ailments and sufferings. However we have to hold fast Christ anyhow.

Matt. 16:4 “A wicked and adulterous generation seeks after a sign, and no sign shall be given to it except the sign of the prophet Jonah. ‘And He left them and departed.” YLT: “`A generation evil and adulterous doth seek a sign, and a sign shall not be given to it, except the sign of Jonah the prophet; `and having left them he went away.” Meaning of Words: “left”: to give up, to abandon, and to go off in a huff. The Background: “the sign of the prophet Jonah”: Jonah was in the belly of the fish three days and nights (Jon. 1:17) and then was vomited out by the fish and survived (Jon. 2:10). Literal Meaning: “a wicked and adulterous generation,” “wicked” indicates the inner corruptible disposition; “adulterous” indicates the outward corruptible behaviors; “generation” indicates the age at the moment. Spiritual Meaning: “a wicked and adulterous generation,” “wicked”: “backsliding”, “faithless” (See Hos. 4:12). “The sign of the prophet Jonah” typifies that the Lord was buried after His death and then rose the third day. Only Christ who had died and risen again is the greatest sign shown to men from God and Christ is also the greatest salvation given by God to men. Enlightenment in the Word: 1) The Lord Himself is the sign of this generation. Only Christ who had died and had risen again is able to solve the problems of this corruptible and disorderly generation. 2) “And He left them and departed.” The wrong pursuit and uninitiated pursuit (asking for signs) contrarily obstructed them to receive revelations. Any pursuit that is not with the aim of Christ is vain and fruitless. 3) Religious believers did not think good to have God in knowledge (See Rom. 1:28) and therefore the Lord abandoned them.

Matt. 16:5 “Now when His disciples had come to the other side, they had forgotten to take bread.” YLT: “And his disciples having come to the other side, forgot to take loaves,”

Matt. 16:6 “Then Jesus said to them, ‘Take heed and beware of the leaven of the Pharisees and the Sadducees.’” YLT: “and Jesus said to them, `Beware, and take heed of the leaven of the Pharisees and Sadducees;’” Literal Meaning: “take heed and beware of the leaven of the Pharisees and the Sadducees.” “Leaven” is the unicellular thallus which is able to make bread to ferment and bread that has been fermented becomes more delicious. Spiritual Meaning: “take heed and beware of the leaven of the Pharisees and the Sadducees.” “Leaven” indicates evil things (See Exod. 12:20, 1Cor. 5:7-8) and evil teachings (See v.12, Gal. 5:8-9). Enlightenment in the Word: “leaven” is hidden in bread and makes the bread more delicious. Today in Christianity, many teachings of men which are covered by God’s words (bread) seem to be helpful and easy to be accepted. But actually they corrupt men who eat them and therefore we should beware of the leaven. Matt. 16:7 “And they reasoned among themselves, saying, ‘It is because we have taken no bread.’” YLT: “and they were reasoning in themselves, saying, `Because we took no loaves.’” Enlightenment in the Word: 1) It is a fact that the disciples had taken no bread (See v.5). Paying attention to subjective facts overly will make men misunderstand God’s words. 2) The Lord talked about spiritual things (See v.6) and the disciples thought about material things. If men’s spiritual understanding has not been opened (See Luke. 24:45), they still live in earthly realm and are unable to understand the Lord’s words. 3) Material concepts and earthly cares usually are the shadow of spiritual understanding.

Matt. 16:8 “But Jesus, being aware of it, said to them, ‘O you of little faith, why do you reason among yourselves because you have brought no bread?” YLT: “And Jesus having known, said to them, `Why reason ye in yourselves, ye of little faith, because ye took no loaves?” Enlightenment in the Word: 1) The Lord has perspective sight and He is God who knows men’s reins and hearts. 2) “Men of little faith” walk by sight, not by faith (See 1Cor. 5:7).

Matt. 16:9 “Do you not yet understand, or remember the five loaves of the five thousand and how many baskets you took up?” YLT: “do ye not yet understand, nor remember the five loaves of the five thousand, and how many hand-baskets ye took up?” Literal Meaning: please see Matt. 14:13-21.

Matt. 16:10 “Nor the seven loaves of the four thousand and how many large baskets you took up?” YLT: “nor the seven loaves of the four thousand, and how many baskets ye took up?” Literal Meaning: please see Matt. 15:32-39. Enlightenment in the Word: it is a great sign that the Lord had changed bread two times to feed several thousands of people. However, the disciples had forgotten it only after several days. It shows that it is not helpful for men to know Christ by seeking charismatic and stressing on signs and wonders.

Matt. 16:11 “How is it you do not understand that I did not speak to you concerning bread?--but to beware of the leaven of the Pharisees and Sadducees.’” YLT: “how do ye not understand that I did not speak to you of bread to take heed of the leaven of the Pharisees and Sadducees?’” Enlightenment in the Word: in spiritual things, we are always like the disciples who called bread the leaven, called a stag a horse and were deceived by backsliders because they lacked spiritual discernment (See Rom. 16:17-18, Eph. 4:14).

Matt. 16:12 “Then they understood that He did not tell them to beware of the leaven of bread, but of the doctrine of the Pharisees and Sadducees.” YLT: “Then they understood that he did not say to take heed of the leaven of the bread, but of the teaching, of the Pharisees and Sadducees.” Literal Meaning: “of the doctrines of the Pharisees and Sadducees.” “Doctrine of the Pharisees” indicates to pay attention to external forms, hypocrisy, affectation, and gaining false reputation of piety; “doctrine of the Sadducees” indicates to study religious philosophy but not to believe in God’s power of resurrection. Enlightenment in the Word: 1) Any doctrine that misleads men to “have a form of piety but deny the power of it” (2Tim. 3:5) is the doctrine of the Pharisees. 2) The Liberalism boosts Christ’s philanthropy and does not believe that He is the Son of God and the Savior who had died and had risen again. This kind of doctrine is the doctrine of the Sadducees. 3) Wrong doctrines will become the veils on men’s face to lift themselves up against the knowledge of God (See 2Cor. 3: 13-16).

Matt. 16:13 “When Jesus came into the region of Caesarea Philippi, He asked His disciples, saying, ‘Who do men say that I, the Son of Man, am?’” YLT: “And Jesus, having come to the parts of Cesarea Philippi, was asking his disciples, saying, `Who do men say me to be the Son of Man?’” Literal Meaning: “came into the region of Caesarea Philippi.” It is located on the north of the Sea of Galilee, near to the roots of the Mount Hermon. Heresy is featured strongly in this place. “Who do men say that I, the Son of Man, am?” The Lord called Himself “the Son of Man”. This appellation shows that: 1) though He is God, He is genuinely a “man” when He is manifested before men; 2) He was rejected by the Jews. Enlightenment in the Word: 1) “Caesarea Philippi” is the place far away from religious atmosphere and sphere. The Lord specially brought the disciples there to ask them this personal and important question because traditional religious knowledge and concepts always deceive men and make it difficult for them to receive spiritual revelations. 2) Knowing Jesus Christ is the access to spiritual realm. Anyone who does not know Jesus Christ will not partake in the assembly and the kingdom of heaven.

Matt. 16:14 “So they said, ‘Some say John the Baptist, some Elijah, and others Jeremiah or one of the prophets.’” YLT: “and they said, `Some, John the Baptist, and others, Elijah, and others, Jeremiah, or one of the prophets.’” Literal Meaning: the testimony of life is the feature of “John the Baptist” (See Matt. 3:4); being jealous for God is the feature of “Elijah” (See 1Kings. 19:14); lamenting for God’s people is the feature of “Jeremiah” (See Lam.); “one of the prophets,” the feature of “prophets” is to speak for God. Enlightenment in the Word: 1) John the Baptist, Elijah, Jeremiah and prophets were all servants used by God and all spoke for God. Many aspects of them were like Christ. However, they were not Christ. Men are unable to know Christ completely without revelations. 2) Even the disciple who were with the Lord all the day seemed not to know Christ clearly. Those who speak Christ with their mouth may not truly know Christ.

Matt. 16:15 “He said to them, ‘But who do you say that I am?’” YLT: “He saith to them, ‘And ye who do ye say me to be?’” Enlightenment in the Word: 1) The hearsay and secondhand knowledge (“some say”) do not count. Only the personal and firsthand knowledge (“do you say”) counts. What’s important is whether we have true knowledge of the Lord. 2) Knowing the Lord is the starting point for men to forsake everything and pursue and obtain Christ (See Pill. 3:8-12).

Matt. 16:16 “Simon Peter answered and said, ‘You are the Christ, the Son of the living God.’” YLT: “and Simon Peter answering said, `Thou art the Christ, the Son of the living God.’” Literal Meaning: “you are the Christ,” “Christ” means the anointed one (Dan. 9:26) and this is the Lord’s administration from God. God anointed Him with the Holy Spirit and sent Him into the world to fulfill His mission (See Luke. 4:18-19). “The Son of the living God,” “the Son” bears resemblance to the image of His father and therefore “the Son of God” indicates that He is the manifestation and declaration of God (See John. 1:18). Here it shows the Lord’s identity. Enlightenment in the Word: 1) There are two aspects of the knowledge of Christ------the administration and identity; both aspects of the knowledge are indispensable 2) Only believing in Him is not enough, one has to confess Him with his mouth (See Rom. 10:9-10). The Lord likes us to declare that: “You are the Christ, the Son of the living God.” 3) What we need is “the Son of the living God” instead of the dead words and reasons.

Matt. 16:17 “Jesus answered and said to him, ‘Blessed are you, Simon Bar- Jonah, for flesh and blood has not revealed this to you, but My Father who is in heaven.” YLT: “And Jesus answering said to him, `Happy art thou, Simon Bar-Jona, because flesh and blood did not reveal [it] to thee, but my Father who is in the heavens.” Meaning of Words: “Simon”: listener; “Bar-Jonah”: the son of Jonah, the son of the dove. Literal Meaning: “for flesh and blood has not revealed this to you,” means that “for neither did I receive them from men, neither was I taught” (Gal. 1:12). Spiritual Meaning: “Blessed are you, Simon Bar-Jonah,” The Lord here called Peter the name “Simon Bar-Jonah”, indicating that he was able to hear the voice of the Holy Spirit (the dove), i.e. the revelation of the Holy Spirit and therefore he was blessed. Enlightenment in the Word: 1) Knowing that Jesus is Christ is not a small thing and it is blessed. 2) No man can say that Jesus is the Lord, but the Holy Spirit (1Cor. 12:3). 3) The Father’s communion and revelation through the Holy Spirit are the root for men to truly know Christ (See John. 16:13); our knowledge of the Lord is that the Father has revealed His son in us (See Gal. 1:16) through the interpretation of the Holy Spirit (See Eph. 1:17) 4) Except that Christianity is revealed by God, all religions in the world are of men because they are made by the indication of the flesh and blood to the flesh and blood by imagining a way to worship and please God

Matt. 16:18 “And I also say to you that you are Peter, and on this rock I will build My church, and the gates of Hades shall not prevail against it.” YLT: “`And I also say to thee, that thou art a rock, and upon this rock I will build my assembly, and gates of Hades shall not prevail against it;” Meaning of Words: “Peter”: petros; “church”: a calling out, assembly; “rock”: petra; The Background: “gates of Hades” In ancient times, the broad places of the gates were the gathering for the public and were also the places for judgment where officers sat in the gates. Therefore “the gates” represents the authority. Literal Meaning: “on this rock I will build My church” implies that: 1) “I” shows that only the Lord Himself instead of anyone else is able to build the church. This also shows that the building of the church is after the death and resurrection of the Lord. 2) “My church” shows that the church is not of anyone but the Lord Himself. Please note that in the four Gospels, “the church” was only mentioned two times in the book of Matthew (v.16 and Matt. 18:17). Matt. 16 means the universal church and Matt. 18 means the local church. 3) “On this rock” shows that the foundation of the church is not Peter the “stone”, but the “rock” which Peter had confessed (See 1Cor. 10:4, 3:11, 1Pet. 2: 7-8); in other words, “rock” indicates Peter’s confession of faith towards Christ because of his revelation from God and therefore it indicates “the teaching of the apostles” (See Eph. 2:20, Acts. 2:42). “The gates of Hades shall not prevail against it.” “Hades” are the destination for men’s souls after the death (See Job. 24:19). Here it indicates the power of darkness which rules death (See Rev. 6:8, 20:14). Controversial Clarification: Roman Catholic misused this verse, considering that the church should be built on Peter the rock, and regarded Peter as the first pope. Then they advocated “Papal infallibility” and the church had to keep the will of the pope, otherwise it was to demolish the building of the church. Any Christian with conscience must not agree with this statement. (Note that Peter himself had made mistakes, pleas see Gal. 2:11-16). Enlightenment in the Word: 1) The Lord saved us in order that we, dust of ground (Gen. 2:7) may be transformed into living stones (the meaning of Peter), the material to build the church (See 1Pet. 2:5). 2) The church is built on the foundation------the true knowledge of Christ. Any idea, concept, way and reason that are of men are not the church but the meetings of men and man-made organizations. 3) “The gates of Hades shall not prevail against it.” The life of resurrection that believers have received after they were born from above cannot be closed by death. Only relying on this life will we prevail against the gates of Hades. 4) A believer alone may be harmed by the power of darkness and therefore in spiritual conflicts, if we want to be protected, we have to be united to the body of Christ and do not leave the church. 5) What the Hades fear most is “the church that has been built up”. We have to edify the body of Christ unto the measure of the stature of the fullness of Christ (See Eph. 4:12-13). In this way, we are accounted the invincible and successful spiritual soldiers (See Eph. 6:10-17). 6) The Father revealed Christ and Christ revealed the church. Only those who have received the revelation by the Father’s mercy are able to know Christ. And only those who know Christ are able to truly know the church. 7) Knowing Christ without the Father’s revelation must be of mind, letters and words. Without Christ’s revelation it is dangerous and disorderly for someone to deal with the problems of the church.

Matt. 16:19 “And I will give you the keys of the kingdom of heaven, and whatever you bind on earth will be bound in heaven, and whatever you loose on earth will be loosed in heaven.’” YLT: “and I will give to thee the keys of the reign of the heavens, and whatever thou mayest bind upon the earth shall be having been bound in the heavens, and whatever thou mayest loose upon the earth shall be having been loosed in the heavens.’” Meaning of Words: “bound”: impose sanction against, declare to forbid (legal terms); “loose”: release the punishment, declare to permit (legal terms). Literal Meaning: “I will give you the keys of the kingdom of heavens,” “keys” symbolize the authority; “you”: Peter. The entrusting of keys was fulfilled on the Pentecost (See Acts. 2:38-42) and in the house of Cornelius (See Acts. 10:34- 48). Peter had opened the door of the kingdom of heaven for the Jewish and Gentile believers respectively. “ Whatever you bind on earth will be bound in heaven, and whatever you loose on earth will be loosed in heaven.” According to the original, the Lord did not give men the rights to condemn whether it is guilty or not. The Lord gave men heavenly sight and enabled men to declare the heavenly judgments. Moreover, according to the context, here it was spoken for the authority and power of the glad tidings. Enlightenment in the Word: 1) Only those who truly know Christ and the church are able to hold “the keys of the kingdom of heaven” so as to open the heavenly abundance for men and bring down heavenly blessing. 2) To anyone who truly knows Christ and the church, his deeds accord with heavenly deeds and therefore he has the authority to bind and loose. 3) The true spiritual authority comes from revelations------revelations bring in knowledge, knowledge brings in edification, and edification brings in authority.

Matt. 16:20 “Then He commanded His disciples that they should tell no one that He was Jesus the Christ.” YLT: “Then did he charge his disciples that they may say to no one that he is Jesus the Christ.” Literal Meaning: because the Jews had wrong concepts towards “Christ” (the Messiah). They thought that the coming Messiah is the salvation of the race and He would lead the Jews to rebel the domination of the different race to build a kingdom of peace of the Jews. Therefore if they had publicized that “He is Christ”, it is of no help to His work of salvation and it may cause trouble. Enlightenment in the Word: natural man does not receive the things of the Spirit of God, for they are folly to Him (See 1Cor. 2:14) and therefore we should not tell the experience and things of the Spirit of God to others randomly (See Matt. 7:6).

Matt. 16:21 “From that time Jesus began to show to His disciples that He must go to Jerusalem, and suffer many things from the elders and chief priests and scribes, and be killed, and be raised the third day.” YLT: “From that time began Jesus to shew to his disciples that it is necessary for him to go away to Jerusalem, and to suffer many things from the elders, and chief priests, and scribes, and to be put to death, and the third day to rise.” Literal Meaning: “from that time” indicates the time after God had revealed Christ and Christ had revealed the church (See v.16-19). “He must go to Jerusalem,” The Lord Jesus steadfastly set His face to go to Jerusalem to suffer many things and death. He did not have foolhardiness but to do the will of God and fulfill the work of salvation. “ Suffer many things from the elders and chief priests and scribes”: to be persecuted by the Jewish council. “The elders and chief priests” are the main members of the council. Enlightenment in the Word: 1) After the Lord had revealed that He would build His church (See v.18), then He mentioned His cross, showing us that the cross is the way to build the church. 2) One has to know Christ and the church first and then knows the cross. The lessons of the cross are effective and positive to someone only on the basis of the knowledge of Christ and the church. 3) The greatest cross of believers is not the trouble from unbelievers but from those who have position in the assembly and the knowledge of the Bible (“the elders and chief priests”) and the trouble is many-sided (“many things”). 4) After men have known Christ with His divinity, they have to know Christ who had redeemed men by death.

Matt. 16:22 “Then Peter took Him aside and began to rebuke Him, saying, ‘Far be it from You, Lord; this shall not happen to You!’” YLT: “And having taken him aside, Peter began to rebuke him, saying, `Be kind to thyself, sir; this shall not be to thee;’” Literal Meaning: “far be it from you”: “be kind to yourself” or “may God forbid” in original. Enlightenment in the Word: 1) Peter, relying on his natural thoughts and feelings, dissuaded the Lord from the cross, showing that natural men do not know or receive the cross. 2) Obviously Peter only heard the word “suffer many things…and be killed” and did not hear the word “be raised the third day” (See v.21). He, representing the common people, made the mistake: he only paid attention to the negative words and neglected the positive words. Actually the latter was more important.

Matt. 16:23 “But He turned and said to Peter, ‘Get behind Me, Satan! You are an offense to Me, for you are not mindful of the things of God, but the things of men.’” YLT: “and he having turned, said to Peter, `Get thee behind me, adversary! thou art a stumbling-block to me, for thou dost not mind the things of God, but the things of men.’” Meaning of Words: “Satan”: the adversary, the accuser; “offense”: stumbling block, obstacle, snare, trap; “mindful”: to interest oneself in (with concern or obedience). Enlightenment in the Word: 1) One who has received God’s revelation (See v.17) has to be mindful of the things of God and do the will of God. 2) Anyone who thinks on God is the one who is mindful of the things of God. Only when someone thinks on God will he be mindful of the things of God. 3) Once Peter was not mindful of the things of God, but the things of men, he became “Satan”. It shows that things of men oppose (the meaning of Satan) the will of God and block (“an offense to Me”) the Lord to build His church. 4) Being mindful of the things of God, but the things of men is to concern men’s gain and lose, but to sacrifice God’s profit. 5) Satan is good at utilizing the inclination of human nature to “seek ease and comfort and be afraid of sufferings” and makes men be its tools unconsciously. 6) Peter just said rightly and for a short while he said wrongly. It shows that even if someone has received many revelations and is of spiritual, once he is carless, he may be utilized by Satan. 7) Anyone who knows Christ is “blessed”. However, once someone rejects the cross, he becomes “Satan” immediately. Here it shows that we need to not only know Christ, but also know the cross (See 1Cor. 2:2). Anything that holds someone back from taking his cross is of Satan. 8) Not only the serpent (which deceives men to commit sins) is Satan, but also the natural love of men who do not understand the will of God and things of men are Satan. 9) Once the enemy wants to usurp the worship that God deserves, the Lord said immediately: “Get behind me, Satan!” (See Matt. 4:8-10). Once the enemy wants to hold up things of men and overshadow the will of God, the Lord also said promptly: “Get behind me, Satan!” The reason why it is called Satan is that it opposes God in these two things. 10) The greatest aim of Christ’s coming into the world is to fulfill the salvation on the cross. Anyone who attempts to hold the Lord back from fulfilling the salvation is of one mind with Satan and he will be rebuked by the Lord.

Matt. 16:24 “Then Jesus said to His disciples, ‘If anyone desires to come after Me, let him deny himself, and take up his cross, and follow Me.” YLT: “Then said Jesus to his disciples, `If any one doth will to come after me, let him disown himself, and take up his cross, and follow me,” Literal Meaning: “let him deny himself,” “deny”: disown, abstain. It means that not only denying the connection but also breaking off the connection. “Take up his cross” There are two kinds of crosses: 1) Christ’s cross------it is for atonement (1Pet. 2:24); 2) the individual cross of believers (his cross) ------it is for one to be crucified with the Lord (Rom. 6:6). The cross includes three aspects: suffering many things, being killed and being raised. Unfortunately, common believers only know and experience the aspect of suffering many things and lack the experience of being killed and being raised. Enlightenment in the Word: 1) Our “selves” are the greatest trouble to block men to follow the Lord. Only when we have denied ourselves will we obey the Lord’s guidance unconditionally and walk on the way of the Lord. 2) The slogan of the cross is to “take away” (John. 19:15) and therefore taking up the cross is taking away, that is to deny oneself------being crucified to the world and to himself (Gal. 6:14). 3) If we want to follow the Lord, we have to deny ourselves. If we want to deny ourselves, we have to take our own crosses. The Lord has arranged different crosses for everyone and everyone has his own cross.

Matt. 16:25 “For whoever desires to save his life will lose it, but whoever loses his life for My sake will find it.” YLT: “for whoever may will to save his life, shall lose it, and whoever may lose his life for my sake shall find it,” Meaning of Words: “loses”: die, miss, destroy. Literal Meaning: “life” is “soul” in original. It includes thought, feeling and will. This verse means that anyone who seeks comfort and ease in this time and satisfies his soul will suffer in the coming age and lose the enjoyment of soul. Anyone who suffers for the Lord’s sake will receive the enjoyment of soul in the coming age. Enlightenment in the Word: 1) The one who wants to save actually loses and the one who wants to lose actually saves; the one who gains actually loses and the one who wants to lose actually gain (See v.26). The knowledge of this principle will save men from grudging eternally. 2) “Losing his life” in this verse is also “denying oneself” and “taking up his cross”; what the cross deals with finally is the self and the life of soul. 3) Taking up one’s cross and denying oneself always make the soul suffer. Anything that is unable to make the soul suffer could not be counted as the cross.

Matt. 16:26 “For what profit is it to a man if he gains the whole world, and loses his own soul? Or what will a man give in exchange for his soul?” YLT: “for what is a man profited if he may gain the whole world, but of his life suffer loss? or what shall a man give as an exchange for his life?” Literal Meaning: “loses his own soul” means death. If a man gains the whole world, he only let his soul have short enjoyment. If someone loses his won soul, his soul will suffer eternal losses. Everyone knows fairly well that which one is profitable in these two conditions. Enlightenment in the Word: 1) The world is useful when men are alive. However, men are unable to exchange the world for life because life is more precious than the world. 2) This verse shows that “the world” is opposite to “life”. If someone loves the world, he will lose his life. Therefore we should not love the world and should treasure the life.

Matt. 16:27 “For the Son of Man will come in the glory of His Father with His angels, and then He will reward each according to his works.” YLT: “`For, the Son of Man is about to come in the glory of his Father, with his messengers, and then he will reward each, according to his work.” Meaning of Words: “works”: deeds. Literal Meaning: “for” shows that because the Lord Jesus will come to command judgments in the glory, He does not consider His life and the enjoyment in this time. “According to his works” “works” are not sudden or accidental, but habitual deeds all one’s life. Therefore they will receive eternal recompense. Enlightenment in the Word: 1) The reward in the kingdom of a thousand years is according to “his works” instead of the common identity when we were saved. 2) If believers want to know whether they have reward in future, they should consider their ways (See Hag. 1:5, 2Cor. 13:5). 3) If indeed we suffer with Him, that we may also be glorified with Him (Rom. 8:17); however, if we enjoy the pleasure of sin, we will receive the recompense which is fit. 4) The order of the revelations in this chapter is: 1) Christ; 2) the church; 3) the cross; 4) the glory. Christ is the center of revelations; the church is the vessel to manifest Christ; the cross is the way to manifest Christ; glory is at the peak of manifesting Christ. 5) Only knowing Christ, edifying the church and walking on the way of cross will fully manifest Christ and it is the glory.

Matt. 16:28 “Assuredly, I say to you, there are some standing here who shall not taste death till they see the Son of Man coming in His kingdom.’” YLT: “Verily I say to you, there are certain of those standing here who shall not taste of death till they may see the Son of Man coming in his reign.’” Literal Meaning: “who shall not taste death” means “before the departure”. “ The Son of Man coming in His kingdom” means when He comes in His kingdom (See Luke. 23:42). According to literal meaning, it is fulfilled in the experience of the Mountain Hermon (See Matt. 17:1-8). Enlightenment in the Word: 1) The cross makes believers partake in the glory of the kingdom of heaven. If we are willing to take up the cross and deny ourselves to edify the church of the Lord, we will see the glory of the kingdom of heaven. 2) Though the overcoming believers will fully and completely taste the glory of the kingdom of heaven in the coming age, they have a foretaste of being glorified in this time.

Spiritual Revelations I. The obstruction of revelations------the leaven of the Pharisees and the Sadducees: A. Religious believers do not know the Lord: 1. They only pay attention to the outward signs and makes (v.1). 2. They are able to discern natural signs and unable to discern spiritual signs (v.2). 3. Only Christ who had died and had risen again is able to solve the problems of this wicked and adulterous world (v.3). B. Teachings of men block men to know Christ: 1. We should take heed and beware of teachings of men (v.5-7). 2. We should walk by faith not by sight (v.8-10). 3. What we should beware of is the hypocritical and practical teachings (v.11-12). II. The Father revealed Christ: A. Nobody could know Christ without revelations (v.13-14). B. One is able to know Christ truly with revelations (v.15-17). III. Christ revealed the church: A. The church is built on the foundation of the knowledge of Christ (v.18a). B. The power of darkness couldn’t prevail against the church that has been built up (v.18b-20). C. The cross is the way to build the church: 1. The cross is to suffer many things, be killed and be raised (v.21). 2. Natural men do not know the preciousness of the cross (v.22). 3. Satan utilizes things of men to block the Lord to build His church (v.23). 4. If one is willing to partake in the Lord’s edification, he has to deny himself, take up his cross and follow the Lord (v.24). 5. If someone is willing to take up his cross, deny himself so as to build the Lord’s church, he will be glorified with the Lord (v.25-28). Be not Foolish, but Understanding What the Will of the Lord (Eph. 5:17) I. The Pharisees and Sadducees were foolish------they knew to discern “the face of the sky” but could not discern “the signs of the times” (v.1-4). II. The disciples were foolish------they did not understand the Lord’s words or remember the Lord’s deeds (v.5-12). III. The Peter living in spirit was wise------he received God’s revelation and knew Christ truly (v.13-20). IV. The Peter living in soul was foolish------he “was not mindful of the things of God, but the things of men” (v.21-28).

The Mystery of the Building of Assembly I. The foundation of the building of the church------this rock------the faith Peter had declared: “Jesus is the Christ, the Son of the living God” (v.16-18b). II. The origin of the faith of the church------flesh and blood has not revealed to you, but My Father who is in heaven (v.17). III. The material to build the church------“you are Peter” (v.18a) ------living stones after someone has been born from above (See 1Pet. 2:5) IV. The builder of the church------“I will build…” (v.18b) ------the Lord Himself. V. The owner of the church------“My church”------it belongs to the Lord instead of anyone else. VI. The authority of the church------“the gates of Hades shall not prevail against it” (v.19).

Matthew Chapter Seventeen

The Pre-manifestation of the Kingdom and Its Application in Real Life I. The vision on the Mount Hermon (v.1-8) ------they experienced the pre- manifestation of the kingdom on the mountain. II. The Lord’s instructions and teachings (v.9-13) ------tell no one what they had seen because men did not know. III. The Lord cast out the demon and healed the epileptic (v.14-21) ------one has to use the power of the kingdom by faith. IV. The Lord foretold His death and resurrection (v.22-23) ------we have to enter into the kingdom of God through tribulations and cross. V. Peter got a piece of money to pay the tax by fishing (v.24-27) ------on one hand citizens of the kingdom should hear the Lord and on the other we should not offend against the earthly authority.

Matt. 17:1 “Now after six days Jesus took Peter, James, and John his brother, led them up on a high mountain by themselves;” YLT: “And after six days Jesus taketh Peter, and James, and John his brother, and doth bring them up to a high mount by themselves,” Literal Meaning: “after six days” There were six days (See Mark. 9:2) between the day on which Peter confessed Jesus as Christ (See Matt. 16:16) and the day on which they climbed the mountain. In the Gospel of Luke, the beginning and last must have been counted and therefore it is recorded “about eight days” (See Luke. 9:28). “Led them up on a high mountain.” At that time, they were in the region of Caesarea Philippi (See Matt. 16:13) and therefore a high mountain may be “the Mount Hermon” (See Deut. 3:8-9, Ps. 133:3). Spiritual Meaning: “after six days,” the old creation was created in six days (See Gen. 1) and therefore “after six days” symbolize in the new creation. “ Peter, James, and John his brother,” they represent overcomers in the believers of the New Testament. “Led them up on a high mountain by themselves” “by themselves” symbolize that only the overcomers are able to see the glory of the kingdom of heaven; “a high mountain” symbolizes the heavenly realm. Enlightenment in the Word: 1) We have to live in the new creation (“after six days”) and in the heavenly realm (“up on a high mountain”). Then we are able to see the manifestation of the Lord’s glory (v.2). 2) Only few people who love the Lord with pure hearts (Peter, James and John) and enter into the “chamber” to live before the Father who is in secret (See Matt. 6:6) will be led by Him secretly (“led…up on a high mountain by themselves”) and they are able to partake in the glory of the kingdom of heaven. Matt. 17:2 “and He was transfigured before them. His face shone like the sun, and His clothes became as white as the light.” YLT: “and he was transfigured before them, and his face shone as the sun, and his garments did become white as the light,” Literal Meaning: “He was transfigured before them.” They were clear-headed and saw the Lord being transfigured with eyes instead of in dream (See 2Pet. 1:16, 1John. 1:1). Spiritual Meaning: this verse indicates that when the Lord comes back, His image of glory (See 2Cor. 3:18) will be fully manifested in the hidden and lowly flesh. His being (“face”) is the effulgence of God’s glory (See Heb. 1:3) and His deeds (“clothes”) are as while as the light. Enlightenment in the Word: 1) One day, we will be transformed according to the same image from glory to glory, even as by the Spirit of the Lord (2Cor. 3:18). 2) When the Lord comes, He shall come to be gloried in His saints, and to be admired in all them that believe (2Thess. 1:10).

Matt. 17:3 “And behold, Moses and Elijah appeared to them, talking with Him.” YLT: “and lo, appear to them did Moses and Elijah, talking together with him.” The Background: Elijah went up into heaven without the experience of death (See 2Kings. 2:11). Though Moses died in the land of Moab, nobody knew where his tomb was (See Deut. 34:5-6). Moreover, Michael the archangel disputed the body of Moses with the devil (See Jude. 1:9), implying that God kept his body and would make him resurrect with the original appearance. Therefore these two persons are probably “the two witnesses” used by God before the coming of the kingdom of a thousand years (See Rev. 11:3-12). Literal Meaning: “talking with Him” They were talking about that He was about to be killed in Jerusalem (See Luke. 9:31). Spiritual Meaning: “Moses and Elijah,” “Moses” here represents the Law that is the words written by God; “Elijah” here is the type of prophets who speak for God. The Law and prophets both bear witness to Christ. Because “Moses” had died, he represents overcomers who died and rose again. “Elijah” had not died and therefore he represents overcomers who are caught up when they live.

Matt. 17:4 “Then Peter answered and said to Jesus, ‘Lord, it is good for us to be here; if You wish, let us make here three tabernacles: one for You, one for Moses, and one for Elijah.’” YLT: “And Peter answering said to Jesus, `Sir, it is good to us to be here; if thou wilt, we may make here three booths for thee one, and for Moses one, and one for Elijah.’” Literal Meaning: “it is good for us to be here” shows that Peter deeply expected to stay in the vision and the realm of the kingdom for long. “One for you, one for Moses, and one for Elijah” Peter said so because he thought the Lord Jesus, Moses and Elijah were equal. Enlightenment in the Word: 1) “Let us make here three tabernacles” shows that Peter not only wanted to keep “Christ” but also wanted to keep the persons and things that were related to Christ. He had held them high even to the same position with Christ. This is the mistake Christians usually make. 2) “Let us make here three tabernacles” also shows that someone only wants to stay in the state of glory and blessing on the mountain and does not want to go down the mountain to face sufferings and take up his cross. However, through many tribulations, we must enter into the kingdom of God (Acts. 14:22). 3) The Law and prophets existed to guide men to know Christ. Though they were very important, they cannot be treated equal with Christ because they were only a shadow and the body is Christ (See Col. 2:17). 4) In the kingdom of God, any ceremony, regulation (the Law) and spiritual giant (the prophet) is unworthy to share the equal position with Christ. 5) Though Moses and Elijah were the most respected persons by Israel, they cannot be mentioned in the same breath with the Lord. Any spiritual giant or religious leader is unworthy to share the glory of Christ. Our Lord is the lord of lords, the king of kings. Only He is worthy to be solely glorified. 6) Work and labor (which Moses stands for), and faith and power (which Elijah stands for) cannot share glory with the Lord. We should let Him have the first place in all things (Col. 1:18).

Matt. 17:5 “While he was still speaking, behold, a bright cloud overshadowed them; and suddenly a voice came out of the cloud, saying, ‘This is My beloved Son, in whom I am well pleased. Hear Him!’” YLT: “While he is yet speaking, lo, a bright cloud overshadowed them, and lo, a voice out of the cloud, saying, `This is My Son, the Beloved, in whom I did delight; hear him.’” Literal Meaning: “a voice came out of the cloud” It is the voice of God. God Himself broke the words of Peter with a voice and corrected his wrong concept. “This is My beloved Son, in whom I am well pleased.” It shows the Father’s praise to Jesus. When Jesus was baptized, the Father said the same word (See Matt. 3:17) and praised His “behaviors” of thirty years that satisfied the will of the Father. Here He praised His “works” of three years that also satisfied the will of the Father. Spiritual Meaning: “a bright cloud overshadowed them” It is the glory of God (See Exod. 24:16). Enlightenment in the Word: 1) Sometimes our life on earth is unavoidably full of black clouds. However, in the heavenly kingdom in future, every cloud is bright. 2) The Father praised Jesus two times, “this is My beloved Son, in whom I am well pleased.” It shows that the Father likes the two models of His beloved Son: He humbles Himself and becomes obedient even unto death; He is held high and full of honor and glory; on one hand He is the Lamb which has been slain and on the other He is the lion which of the tribe of Judah (See Rev. 5:5-6). 3) Only the Lord is the only-begotten Son, who is in the bosom of the Father (John. 1:18). Only He deeply knows the will of the Father and therefore we should “hear Him”. 4) In the time of the New Testament, we should not hear outward regulations and traditions (the Law) or spiritual giants (the prophets). We should hear the Lord who dwells in us. 5) Believers always like to “talk about” Him and seldom “hear” Him.

Matt. 17:6 “And when the disciples heard it, they fell on their faces and were greatly afraid.” YLT: “And the disciples having heard, did fall upon their face, and were exceedingly afraid,” Literal Meaning: “they were greatly afraid” because the voice of God is so fearful (See Heb. 12:19-21). Enlightenment in the Word: 1) Men may be truly humble (“fell on their faces”) only when they “heard” the voice of God. 2) Only spiritual revelations are able to overthrow the silly fervency and make men truly fear God (“they were greatly afraid”).

Matt. 17:7 “But Jesus came and touched them and said, ‘Arise, and do not be afraid.’” YLT: “and Jesus having come near, touched them, and said, `Rise, be not afraid,’” Enlightenment in the Word: From v.6-7, we saw God’s goodness and severity (See Rom. 11:22). When believers hear God’s words, our original concepts are overthrown first and then we greatly feared and next we will receive heavenly comfort, joy and strength.

Matt. 17:8 “When they had lifted up their eyes, they saw no one but Jesus only.” YLT: “and having lifted up their eyes, they saw no one, except Jesus only.” Enlightenment in the Word: 1) Every spiritual persons and things only help us to find Christ and they themselves do not have everlasting value. 2) Those who truly have spiritual sights “see no one but Jesus only”. 3) Spiritual progress depends on our eyes which may be gradually turned away from persons and things that are besides the Lord and be fixed steadfastly on Him.

Matt. 17:9 “Now as they came down from the mountain, Jesus commanded them, saying, ‘Tell the vision to no one until the Son of Man is risen from the dead.’” YLT: “And as they are coming down from the mount, Jesus charged them, saying, `Say to no one the vision, till the Son of Man out of the dead may rise.’” Spiritual Meaning: we should not tell the vision on the mountain to others randomly at the foot of the mountain (i.e. this time) because firstly the time has not come and secondly only those who have received the Lord’s living life are able to understand, talk about and enter into the reality of the vision (See 1Cor. 2:10-15). Enlightenment in the Word: 1) We should not tell to the public randomly what we have seen in secret until the right time. 2) Believers should learn from the example of the Lord Jesus to speak and walk ------if the time is not come, we should say and do nothing (See John. 7:6). Matt. 17:10 “And His disciples asked Him, saying, ‘Why then do the scribes say that Elijah must come first?’” YLT: “And his disciples questioned him, saying, `Why then do the scribes say that Elijah it behoveth to come first?’” Literal Meaning: “why then do the scribes say that Elijah must come first?” “The scribes” were familiar with the Old Testament. According to the Bible, they concluded that in the end of the world, Elijah will come before the Messiah comes (See Mal. 4:5). The disciples asked this question probably because they just saw Jesus being transfigured and they firmly believed that He is the Messiah that shall come. Then they asked Him why Elijah did not come before Jesus.

Matt. 17:11 “Jesus answered and said to them, "Indeed, Elijah is coming first and will restore all things.” YLT: “And Jesus answering said to them, `Elijah doth indeed come first, and shall restore all things,” Literal Meaning: “indeed, Elijah is coming first” “Indeed” means “for one side”. It shows that it is right for the scribes to conclude that Elijah would come before the end of the world. “And will restore all things.” It indicates that he paved the way for the coming of the Messiah (See Mal. 4:5-6, Rev. 11:3-4).

Matt. 17:12 “But I say to you that Elijah has come already, and they did not know him but did to him whatever they wished. Likewise the Son of Man is also about to suffer at their hands.’” YLT: “and I say to you Elijah did already come, and they did not know him, but did with him whatever they would, so also the Son of Man is about to suffer by them.’” Literal Meaning: “but I say to you” “but” means “for another side”. “Elijah has come already.” The Lord here meant that before the prophesy of the Old Testament that Elijah would come has not been fully fulfilled, it has been partially fulfilled in John the Baptist. And therefore the spirit and power of John the Baptist is identical with what Elijah will do when he comes (See Matt. 11:14, Luke. 1:17). “Likewise the Son of Man is also about to suffer at their hands.” Just as the Jews treated John the Baptist whatever they wished because they did not know him------the forerunner and witness of the king of the kingdom of heaven. Because they did not know the Lord Jesus------the king of the kingdom of heaven, they rejected and persecuted Him. Enlightenment in the Word: 1) The more we know Christ, the more we will respect Him and regard Him as excellent (See Pill. 3:8). 2) Anyone who lacks knowledge of spiritual things often becomes inflictor of the Lord or the Lord’s witnesses.

Matt. 17:13 “Then the disciples understood that He spoke to them of John the Baptist.” YLT: “Then understood the disciples that concerning John the Baptist he spake to them.” Enlightenment in the Word: the Lord did not speak of John the Baptist plainly and the disciples understood that it was John the Baptist. Sometimes though the Bible does not speak of something plainly, we should understand the will of the Lord.

Matt. 17:14 “And when they had come to the multitude, a man came to Him, kneeling down to Him and saying,” YLT: “And when they came unto the multitude, there came to him a man, kneeling down to him,” Literal Meaning: “when they had come to the multitude,” “The multitude” indicate other disciples of the Lord. “Kneeling down” shows that someone asked for help humbly.

Matt. 17:15 “‘Lord, have mercy on my son, for he is an epileptic and suffers severely; for he often falls into the fire and often into the water.” YLT: “and saying, `Sir, deal kindly with my son, for he is lunatic, and doth suffer miserably, for often he doth fall into the fire, and often into the water,” Meaning of Words: “epileptic”: crazy; “suffers severely”: illness suffers. Literal Meaning: “he is an epileptic and suffers severely,” “epileptic” is the disease with periodic attack. However it was caused because he was demon- possessed (See v.18). Enlightenment in the Word: 1) The epilepsy of the child was caused by the demon (See v.18). The works of devil are to make men remittent and harm themselves. 2) All our thoughts and deeds of arrogance, conceitedness, pride (“falls into the fire”), self-dispraise, discouragement, self-surrender and suicide (“often into the water”) are from the devil.

Matt. 17:16 “So I brought him to Your disciples, but they could not cure him.’” YLT: “and I brought him near to thy disciples, and they were not able to heal him.’” Literal Meaning: “but they could not cure him.” Please note that the Lord had given them power against unclean spirits, to cast them out, and to heal all manner of sickness and all manner of disease (See Matt. 10:1). Spiritual Meaning: “I brought him to Your disciples,” “disciples” represent believers. “But they could not cure him.” Originally believers have heavenly power to cast out demons (See Mark. 16:17). However, we always fail in real life. Enlightenment in the Word: 1) The reason why the disciples could not cast out the devil is not the ineffectiveness of power given by the Lord but that they were unable to use the power under the state at that time. If the spiritual state of believers falls behind, the spiritual power will be restrained to use. 2) Many times, when men encounter difficulties, they do not ask the Lord for help but spiritual men (“disciples”) and consequently the difficulties still exist.

Matt. 17:17 “Then Jesus answered and said, ‘O faithless and perverse generation, how long shall I be with you? How long shall I bear with you? Bring him here to Me.’” YLT: “And Jesus answering said, `O generation, unstedfast and perverse, till when shall I be with you? till when shall I bear you? bring him to me hither;’” Meaning of Words: “faithless”: unbelief; “perverse”: distort, turn away. Literal Meaning: “faithless and perverse generation,” “Faithless” is towards the Lord’s power; “perverse” is towards the Lord’s will. Enlightenment in the Word: 1) What mostly hurts the Lord (“how long shall I bear with you?”) is the evil heart of unbelief (See Heb. 3:12). 2) The Lord’s signing words show that the reason why the disciples could not cure him is that the Lord was not with them in the flesh and they forgot to draw the Lord’s presence in spirit (See 1Cor. 5:3) and tried to cast out the demon, relying on themselves and consequently it resulted in failure. 3) The generation was wicked and adulterous and it therefore could not enjoy the goodness of the Lord’s presence. However, if one is willing to be humble (“kneeling down”, See v.14) and came to the Lord (“bring him here to Me”) and he will finally be cured.

Matt. 17:18 “And Jesus rebuked the demon, and it came out of him; and the child was cured from that very hour.” YLT: “and Jesus rebuked him, and the demon went out of him, and the lad was healed from that hour.” Meaning of Words: “rebuke”: scold, forbid. Enlightenment in the Word: 1) When the Lord and the disciples were on the mountain, everything is bright and white (See v.2). However, when they were in real environments of life, they encountered the problem of the power of darkness (the demon). 2) We should not be polite when dealing with the demon. We should use the heavenly power and “rebuke” it and it would flee. 3) The sickness of that child was caused by the demon and when the demon was cast out, he was cured. When we pray for the healing of disease, we should have spiritual sight to discern whether the reason of the disease is due to nature or super nature.

Matt. 17:19 “Then the disciples came to Jesus privately and said, ‘Why could we not cast it out?’” YLT: “Then the disciples having come to Jesus by himself, said, `Wherefore were we not able to cast him out?’” Literal Meaning: “the disciples came to Jesus,” “secretly” means private asking. “Why could we not cast it out?” The tone stressed on “we” in original.

Matt. 17:20 “So Jesus said to them, ‘Because of your unbelief; for assuredly, I say to you, if you have faith as a mustard seed, you will say to this mountain, ‘Move from here to there,' and it will move; and nothing will be impossible for you.” YLT: “And Jesus said to them, `Through your want of faith; for verily I say to you, if ye may have faith as a grain of mustard, ye shall say to this mount, Remove hence to yonder place, and it shall remove, and nothing shall be impossible to you,” Meaning of Words: “unbelief”: little faith (it is different from “faithless” in v.17) Literal Meaning: “because of your unbelief” From the following text, we could know that the “unbelief” here does not mean the “true and little faith” but the nature of their faith is so little that it is equal to “unbelief”. “If you have faith as a mustard seed,” means: 1) though faith is as little as a mustard seed (See Matt. 13:32), it is out of the question; 2) faith is able to grow “as a mustard seed”. Whether someone’s faith is great or not does not matter and what matters is whether someone has faith. Spiritual Meaning: “this mountain” indicates obstacles and difficulties that block believers on the way and they seem to be too great to move. “ Move from here to there.” “Move the spanning great mountain” shows overcoming great and firm difficulties. Enlightenment in the Word: 1) All things are possible to him that believes (Mark. 9:23); Faith is to rely on God and let Him do and nothing is too wonderful for Jehovah (Gen. 18:14). 2) Because of unbelief believers are unable to be united with the Lord and draw His power. 3) Though our faith is little, we could use the power of the kingdom. Therefore all things are possible to him that believes and none of the difficulties are unable to overcome.

Matt. 17:21 “However, this kind does not go out except by prayer and fasting.’” YLT: “and this kind doth not go forth except in prayer and fasting.’” Literal Meaning: “this kind does not go out except by prayer and fasting.” “Prayer” is to rely on God; “fasting” is to give up one’s reasonable rights and pay the price, showing one’s determination to fully rely on God. The reason why “fasting” is effective is not the deeds of fasting but the intention and attitude of fasting (See Matt. 6:16-18). Enlightenment in the Word: 1) Prayer and fasting are works of faith (James. 2:26). Believers usually gain the effectiveness of faith through this. 2) The secret of the power to deal with the enemy is our faith (“prayer”) and self-denying (“fasting”).

Matt. 17:22 “Now while they were staying in Galilee, Jesus said to them, ‘The Son of Man is about to be betrayed into the hands of men,” YLT: “And while they are living in Galilee, Jesus said to them, `The Son of Man is about to be delivered up to the hands of men,” Literal Meaning: “while they were staying in Galilee” indicates before the time when they was about to follow the Lord to Jerusalem------the last period of the journey (See Matt. 19:1). Enlightenment in the Word: 1) The one who was manifested as the incomparably glorious king in vision even “is about to be betrayed into the hands of men”, showing that one has to suffer before gaining in the glory (See 1Pet. 5:1). 2) If indeed we suffer with Him, that we may also be gloried together (Rom. 8:17).

Matt. 17:23 “and they will kill Him, and the third day He will be raised up.’ And they were exceedingly sorrowful.” YLT: “and they shall kill him, and the third day he shall rise,` and they were exceeding sorry.” Enlightenment in the Word: 1) Before the complete fulfillment of the glorious vision, one has to go through the way of cross. Only those who have experienced the cross will partake in the reality of the glorious vision. 2) Cross is that the Lord was put in dead place. However He was not kept in dead place, He will be raised up. It is a faithful saying: for if we be dead with Him, we shall also live with Him (2Tim. 2:11; See 2Cor. 4:10-14). 3) The reason why the disciples were sorrowful is that they only heard that the Lord will be killed and did not hear that He would be raised up. Anyone who lacks the revelation of resurrection only has hope in this life (See 1Cor. 15:19) and they do not have the heavenly hope and therefore he is mortally afraid of death. 4) Anyone who does not have the hope of resurrection is unable to receive the cross gladly and joyfully.

Matt. 17:24 “When they had come to Capernaum, those who received the temple tax came to Peter and said, ‘Does your Teacher not pay the temple tax?’” YLT: “And they having come to Capernaum, those receiving the didrachms came near to Peter, and said, `Your teacher doth he not pay the didrachms?’ He saith, `Yes.’” The Background: “the temple tax” is the proper noun for “half a shekel”; its origin: the ancient Jews who was above 20 years old had to offer half a shekel to make atonement for their lives, for the service of the tabernacle or the Holy temple (See Exod. 30:12-16). Therefore it was called “the temple tax”.

Matt. 17:25 “He said, ‘Yes.’ And when he had come into the house, Jesus anticipated him, saying, ‘What do you think, Simon? From whom do the kings of the earth take customs or taxes, from their sons or from strangers?’” YLT: “And when he came into the house, Jesus anticipated him, saying, `What thinkest thou, Simon? the kings of the earth from whom do they receive custom or poll-tax? from their sons or from the strangers?’” Literal Meaning: “Peter said, ‘Yes’” Peter forgot what he had learned just now from the vision of the mountain (See v.5): firstly, the Lord Jesus is the beloved Son of the Father and therefore He did not need to pay the temple tax for Himself; secondly, the Father had asked them to “hear Him”. But Peter did not ask the Lord and made bold to answer them. “Jesus anticipated him,” The Lord said before Peter said anything, implying that it was not the time for you to “say” but for you to “hear”. “Customs or taxes”: taxes that are levied especially for goods. Spiritual Meaning: “he had come into the house” symbolizes returning to the spirit and the Lord indeed lives in our spirits. Enlightenment in the Word: 1) When men live in their souls, they are easy to speak freely. However, once they return to their spirits (“he had come into the house”), they will meet the Lord and know that they are wrong. 2) “What do you think?” shows that: 1) the Lord wants us to enter into His thinking; 2) the Lord’s words and deeds are reasonable instead of unreasonable.

Matt. 17:26 “Peter said to Him, ‘From strangers.’ Jesus said to him, ‘Then the sons are free.” YLT: “Peter saith to him, `From the strangers.’ Jesus said to him, `Then are the sons free;” Literal Meaning: “then the sons are free,” Since the Lord Jesus is the Son of God, He could be free to pay God taxes.

Matt. 17:27 “Nevertheless, lest we offend them, go to the sea, cast in a hook, and take the fish that comes up first. And when you have opened its mouth, you will find a piece of money; take that and give it to them for Me and you.’” YLT: “but, that we may not cause them to stumble, having gone to the sea, cast a hook, and the fish that hath come up first take thou up, and having opened its mouth, thou shalt find a stater, that having taken, give to them for me and thee.’” Enlightenment in the Word: 1) The Lord has the right to not pay taxes. However He would rather abandon His right than offend others (See 1Cor. 8:13, 9:12). 2) Under the conditions that we do not deny the Lord or offend against morality, believers should try our best to obey earthly authorities, and should not “offend them”. 3) Here it shows that He is indeed the lord of all and the glorious king, that even the fish and money obey Him. Moreover, His words never fall and He is indeed the living prophet and the Elijah of today. 4) He is the one who says that He should not pay the taxes and He is also the one who asks Peter to take and give the money to them. The Lord is the living Law and Moses of today. If the Lord says that we should do not something, we should not do that. If the Lord asks us to do something, we should do that. The most important thing is to hear Him. 5) “Take the fish that comes up first,” shows that the Lord is merciful in His chastening. The Lord, for our profit, chastens us (Heb. 12:10) and His chastening stops where it should stop. 6) Every time we hear the Lord and do according to His words, He is always concerned about our needs (“give it to them for Me and you”).

The Vision and Application of the Heavenly Kingdom I. The vision of the heavenly kingdom: A. The epitome of the heavenly kingdom: 1. The overcomers of the New Testament will be manifested with Him in glory (v.1). 2. The being of the Lord shines as the light and His deeds are as white as the light (v.2). 3. The overcomers of the Old Testament also partake in the kingdom (v.3). B. In the heavenly kingdom, the Lord is solely respected: 1. Peter put the Lord, the Law and the prophets to the equal standing by mistake (v.4). 2. God the Father interrupted Peter and asked them to “hear Him” (v.5). 3. They experienced God’s goodness and severity (v.6-7). 4. When they had lifted up their eyes, they saw no one but Jesus only (v.8). II. The witness and way of the vision of the heavenly kingdom: A. The witness of the vision: 1. Tell the vision to no one (v.9). 2. Men may treat them randomly because they did not know the witness (John the Baptist) and the center (Christ) of the vision (v.10-13). B. The way of the vision: 1. Before the complete fulfillment of the glorious vision, one has to experience the cross (v.22-23a). 2. Those who know the death and do not know the resurrection are afraid of the cross (v.23b). III. The application in life of the vision of the heavenly kingdom: A. One has to use the power of the kingdom by faith: 1. In real life at the foot of the mountain, there was trouble of the power of darkness (v.14-15). 2. Because the disciples relied on themselves, they failed to cast out the demon (v.16-18). 3. The Lord said that the reason of the failure was their “unbelief” (v.19- 20). 4. This kind does not go out except by prayer and fasting (v.21). B. One has to hear Him in everything: 1. Peter had not asked the Lord and answered them who received the temple tax “Yes” (v.24-25a). 2. The Lord asked Peter, “From whom do the kings of the earth take customs or taxes, from their sons?” (v.25b). 3. Then the sons are free (v.26). 4. The Lord asked Peter to take a fish and find a piece of money to pay the tax, teaching him that he should learn to ask the Lord in everything and walk according to His words (v.27).

The Revelation of the Kingdom of A Thousand Years (v.1-8) I. Christ gains glory and reigns (See Rev. 11:15). II. Peter, James and John symbolize the house of Israel (See Rom. 11:26). III. Moses symbolizes believers who died and rose up (See 1Cor. 15:52, 1Thess. 4:16). IV. Elijah symbolizes believers who are caught up when they live (See 1Thess. 4:17). V. The men who were left at the foot of the mountain symbolize nations (See Is. 11:10-12).

The Guidance of the Lord I. The Lord led the disciples up on a mountain for devotions: A. They saw the glory of the Lord (v.1-4). B. They heard the voice of God (v.5). C. They were comforted by the Lord (v.6-7). D. The end of their devotions------“they saw no one but Jesus only” (v.8). II. The Lord led the disciples down at the foot of the mountain for practices: A. Contacting with the world------tell what they saw to no one because they may be treated randomly for lack of knowledge (v.9-13). B. The problem of the demon-possessed men------they should pray and fast, using the heavenly power by the deeds of faith (v. 14-21). C. The Lord foretold them that He would encounter sufferings of cross (v.22- 23). D. The problem of the temple tax------they should ask the Lord in everything and walk according to His words (v.24-27).

Matthew Chapter Eighteen

The State that the Citizens of the Kingdom of Heaven Should Have I. Be humble to each other------the humbler one is, the greater he will be (v.1-4). II. Receive each other------do not offend others (v.5-11). III. Seek each other------do not cause anyone to get lost (v.12-14). IV. Retrieve each other------one or two agree concerning anything that they ask and are gathered in the name of the Lord (v.15-20). V. Forgive each other------forgive his brother from his heart (v.21-35).

Matt. 18:1 “At that time the disciples came to Jesus, saying, ‘Who then is greatest in the kingdom of heaven?’” YLT: “At that hour came the disciples near to Jesus, saying, `Who, now, is greater in the reign of the heavens?’” Literal Meaning: “at that time” is the same time when the Lord taught Peter to take a fish for a piece of money to pay for the tax (See Matt. 17:27). “Who then is greatest in the kingdom of heaven?” The disciples asked this question. It proved that they liked to be great, they even had disputed among themselves, who should be the greatest (See Mark. 9:33-34). Enlightenment in the Word: 1) Not merely the world likes to dispute that who is the greatest, but also this difficulty exists in the assembly. 2) The inclination to dispute that who is the greatest is of the natural life of the old man. Only those who live in the spiritual life of the new man are able to solve this problem.

Matt. 18:2 “Then Jesus called a little child to Him, set him in the midst of them,” YLT: “And Jesus having called near a child, did set him in the midst of them,”

Matt. 18:3 “and said, ‘Assuredly, I say to you, unless you are converted and become as little children, you will by no means enter the kingdom of heaven.” YLT: “and said, `Verily I say to you, if ye may not be turned and become as the children, ye may not enter into the reign of the heavens;” Meaning of Words: “converted”: transform, change; “becomes”: cause to be, be fulfilled; Literal Meaning: “unless you are converted” The passive voice “are converted” shows that this can not be done by men’s natural power. One’s life and disposition need be changed by the power of God. Certainly, this kind of conversion is definitely not an affectation in appearance. The Lord indicated that one not only has to repent and be born from above, but also he should let the life of God change his disposition. “ Become as little children” “Little children” have many disadvantages and advantages, compared with grown-ups; the Lord did not want them to be as ignorant as little children (See 1Cor. 3:1-3) or unable to discern both good and evil (See Eph. 4:14), or unable to eat meat (See Heb. 5:12-14), etc. The Lord asked them to be as “humble” as children (See v.4). This feature shows that: children are simple and pure, they feel lowly and fully rely on their parents and they are willing to hear and obey their parents, etc. Enlightenment in the Word: 1) Here it is not “act” as little children, but “become” as little children. Therefore one is able to rest in his present standing and does not feel strenuous or at a disadvantage. 2) The Lord’s words show that our old men and old dispositions have no place in the kingdom of heaven because God sets Himself against the proud (James. 4:6, 1Pet5. 5).

Matt. 18:4 “Therefore whoever humbles himself as this little child is the greatest in the kingdom of heaven.” YLT: “whoever then may humble himself as this child, he is the greater in the reign of the heavens.” Meaning of Words: “humble”: depress, bring low, abase. Literal Meaning: “humbles himself”: bring low himself and do not let the self be free. Enlightenment in the Word: 1) A child holds that he has nothing to boast and therefore his humbleness is sincere. Anyone who holds that he is nothing, owns nothing and only leads a life relying on God’s mercy and grace is the greatest in the kingdom of heaven. 2) The Lord humbled Himself and therefore He was highly exalted by God (Pill. 2:8-9). The principle in spiritual realm is that for every one who humbles himself shall be exalted (See Luke. 18:14). 3) The humbler one is, the more he is able to be reigned by God and the greater he is in the kingdom of heaven. Matt. 18:5 “Whoever receives one little child like this in My name receives Me.” YLT: “`And he who may receive one such child in my name, doth receive me,” Literal Meaning: “receives…in My name” “In My name” has three meanings: 1) in order to glorify the name of the Lord; 2) for the Lord Himself; 3) according to the fact that the counterpart is of the Lord. “Receive”: welcome, be concerned about, accept willingly. “Whoever receives one little child like this receives Me.” “Little child” indicates believers who are spiritually naïve and weak. Grown-ups always dislike the childishness, ignorance and bother of children. Only those who become little children are able to receive those who are children in minds willingly (See 1Cor. 13:11, 14:20). This kind of reception shall be remembered by the Lord (See Matt. 10:42, 25:40). Enlightenment in the Word: 1) We should love both Christ and all the Saints. 2) In the sight of the Lord, our attitudes towards men are equivalent to our attitudes towards Himself (See Matt. 10:40).

Matt. 18:6 “‘Whoever causes one of these little ones who believe in Me to sin, it would be better for him if a millstone were hung around his neck, and he were drowned in the depth of the sea.” YLT: “and whoever may cause to stumble one of those little ones who are believing in me, it is better for him that a weighty millstone may be hanged upon his neck, and he may be sunk in the depth of the sea.” Literal Meaning: “whoever causes one of these little ones who believe in Me to sin,” “Little ones who believe in Me” indicate any common believer. “To sin” indicates one’s faith in the Lord is shaken so that he even departs from the righteous way or commits sins. “It would be better for him if a millstone were hung around his neck, and he were drowned in the depth of the sea.” “A millstone” is literally translated as “the millstone for the donkey to turn” which is much bigger than the common mill for house application (See Matt. 24:41). Therefore it must be very heavy. If it were hung around one’s neck, not only he would be drowned in the depth of the sea, but also it is impossible for him to emerge from the surface of the sea. Spiritual Meaning: “it would be better for him if a millstone were hung around his neck, and he were drowned in the depth of the sea” indicates that this man would cause others to sin because of his pride and hardened neck. The Lord here meant that this kind of people who cause others to sin are useless in the assembly. It would be better to treat them as Gentiles (“drowned in the depth of the sea”) and have no company with them (See 2Thess. 3:14), lest they may continually harm others. Enlightenment in the Word: 1) Believers, in the assembly, should be those who supply the spiritual bread (“a millstone”). However, if one always offends others, even though he is spiritually talented, he is useless. 2) A millstone could help men grind grain for men’s living. It could also be used to drown men into the sea and deprive the meaning of men’s existence. Whether something is positive or negative depends on men’s own spiritual state.

Matt. 18:7 “Woe to the world because of offenses! For offenses must come, but woe to that man by whom the offense comes!” YLT: “`Wo to the world from the stumbling-blocks! for there is a necessity for the stumbling-blocks to come, but wo to that man through whom the stumbling- block doth come!” Enlightenment in the Word: 1) The Lord treated it very serious to offend others. Though believers who offend others shall not lose the eternal life, they must suffer great losses in the kingdom. 2) Though in the assembly, offenses must come whether it is on purpose or not. However if it is possible, we have to be careful and do our utmost to avoid offending others. 3) The main reason to offend others or be offended by others is pride. A proud man either offends others or is offended by others.

Matt. 18:8 “‘If your hand or foot causes you to sin, cut it off and cast it from you. It is better for you to enter into life lame or maimed, rather than having two hands or two feet, to be cast into the everlasting fire.” YLT: “`And if thy hand or thy foot doth cause thee to stumble, cut them off and cast from thee; it is good for thee to enter into the life lame or maimed, rather than having two hands or two feet, to be cast to the fire the age-during.” Literal Meaning: “the everlasting fire” indicates that the fire in the hell is not quenched (See Mark. 9:44). Spiritual Meaning: “hand” symbolizes behaviors and methods; “foot” symbolizes position and way. Enlightenment in the Word: 1) The one who is easy to offend others usually offend himself first. If someone is unwilling to offend others, he has to learn not to offend himself first. 2) One should pay price to remove every cause of offenses and should not harden his neck or hold on his existing methods and position (See Rom. 14:13, 21). 3) One has to strictly deal with any person or thing that may cause to offend men. We would rather let the Lord deprive us of the material and external perfectness in this life than inherit the spiritual and everlasting losses and loses of life.

Matt. 18:9 “And if your eye causes you to sin, pluck it out and cast it from you. It is better for you to enter into life with one eye, rather than having two eyes, to be cast into hell fire.” YLT: “`And if thine eye doth cause thee to stumble, pluck it out and cast from thee; it is good for thee one-eyed to enter into the life, rather than having two eyes to be cast to the gehenna of the fire.” Literal Meaning: “cast into hell fire” “hell” is the place for sinners to be tortured forever. “Cast into hell fire” indicates the second death (See Rev. 20:14). Spiritual Meaning: “eye” symbolizes sight, view, the lust of the eyes, desire. Enlightenment in the Word: 1) If one holds on his own idea, he shall offend himself and others. If he does not deal with it, he will suffer spiritual losses (See 1Cor. 3:15). 2) If our eyes despise others (See v.10), we have to pluck them out (i.e. deal with them). The reason why men despise others is that they have thought soberly and think of themselves more highly than they ought to think (Rom. 12:3). Believers should be in lowliness of mind and each esteems the others as more excellent than themselves (Pill. 2:3).

Matt. 18:10 “‘Take heed that you do not despise one of these little ones, for I say to you that in heaven their angels always see the face of My Father who is in heaven.” YLT: “`Beware! ye may not despise one of these little ones, for I say to you, that their messengers in the heavens do always behold the face of my Father who is in the heavens,” Literal Meaning: “their angels” Every believer has angels that serve him no matter how insignificant he is (See Heb. 1:14, Acts. 12:15). “Always see the face of My Father who is in heaven” The angels who take care of little children always stand before the Father, indicating God’s mercy and help at any time. Enlightenment in the Word: 1) It is the spirit of the world to despise one of these little ones. The spirit of the heavenly kingdom is to receive little ones and not to offend anyone of little ones (See v.5-6). 2) The main reason to offend others is to be proud and despise others. 3) There is no acceptance of persons with God (Rom. 2:11). Therefore anyone who despises men may hurt the Father in the Heaven. God values and takes care of those who are despised by men. 4) To every believer, there probably is more than one angel that serves us by ascending and descending on the heavenly ladder (See John.1:51, Gen. 28:12) to deliver our prayer and God’s grace.

Matt. 18:11 “For the Son of Man has come to save that which was lost.” YLT: “for the Son of Man did come to save the lost.” Literal Meaning: “that which was lost” means “the lost” in origin and this word indicates both the lost sinners (See Luke. 15:3-7) and the lost believers. Here it should be the latter according to the context. Therefore “that which was lost” does not indicate those who are on the way that leads to destruction but believers who fall in the world and sins. Enlightenment in the Word: 1) Christ comes not to offend men or cause them to sin but to save men. 2) Christ is preserver of all man, especially of those that believe (1Tim. 4:10).

Matt. 18:12 “What do you think? If a man has a hundred sheep, and one of them goes astray, does he not leave the ninety-nine and go to the mountains to seek the one that is straying?” YLT: “`What think ye? if a man may have an hundred sheep, and there may go astray one of them, doth he not having left the ninety-nine, having gone on the mountains seek that which is gone astray?” The Background: “the one that is straying” Sheep are naturally stupid and clumsy and they are easy to go astray. Therefore they need to be shepherded and guided by shepherds. Spiritual Meaning: “if a man has a hundred sheep, and one of them goes astray” “A man” is the Lord Himself. He is a good shepherd and we are His sheep (John. 10:14). “Goes astray.” Christians go astray and get lost because they have turn to their own ways (Is. 53:6). “ Go to the mountains to seek” indicates that the Lord makes nothing of hardships and earnestly seeks the lost sheep. Enlightenment in the Word: 1) The Lord not only saves us but also keeps us. He is unwilling to lose anyone that believers (See John. 10:28-29). 2) He keeps everyone that he has saved. The problem is that, would you trust Him and entrust yourselves unto Him (See 2Tim. 1:12)?

Matt. 18:13 “And if he should find it, assuredly, I say to you, he rejoices more over that sheep than over the ninety-nine that did not go astray.” YLT: “and if it may come to pass that he doth find it, verily I say to you, that he doth rejoice over it more than over the ninety-nine that have not gone astray;” Literal Meaning: the Lord here did not mean that He values that sheep more than the ninety-nine normal sheep. The Lord here depicted that He was especially satisfied (See Is. 53:11) with the sheep that was dead and is alive again, it was lost and is found (See Luke. 15:24, 32) when He saw of the travail of His soul. Enlightenment in the Word: 1) The plain sailing on the spiritual way may not be good. Many real spiritual lessons are learnt in “going astray” and then “being found”. 2) We should not only take care of the little sheep that seem to be normal but also consider the mind of the Lord and earnestly find the little sheep that go astray.

Matt. 18:14 “Even so it is not the will of your Father who is in heaven that one of these little ones should perish.” YLT: “so it is not will in presence of your Father who is in the heavens, that one of these little ones may perish.” Enlightenment in the Word: the eyes of God are upon His every child (seeking the one that is straying); the heart of God is deeply concerned about His every child (it is not the will of your Father that one of these little ones should perish). Therefore we should mind the heart of God (Pill. 1:8) and do not make any Saint get lose or offend any of them.

Matt. 18:15 “Moreover if your brother sins against you, go and tell him his fault between you and him alone. If he hears you, you have gained your brother.” YLT: “`And if thy brother may sin against thee, go and show him his fault between thee and him alone, if he may hear thee, thou didst gain thy brother;” Literal Meaning: “your brother” indicates that he is also a believer. “Sin against you” is “commit a sin” in some old scriptures. “You have gained your brother” indicates that you have retrieved your brother from sins. Enlightenment in the Word: 1) It is of little thing that your brother has sinned against you. It is of great thing that the brother who has sinned against you does not know that he is wrong. 2) In order to make him beware of his wrongness, not giving himself up to the error (Jude. 11) and gain your brother, one has to point out his wrongness. 3) Pointing out one’s wrongness is not blame or accusation but hoping one to be converted. 4) We have to point to one’s wrongness in his presence and should not tell others one’s wrongness behind his back. We should not tell the words that we dare not to speak in the presence of your brother behind his back. 5) We should put ourselves in others’ position and be concerned about the other person. We should not let others know that he has sinned against us unless absolutely necessary. 6) Believers should do the “right” thing by the “right” attitude and way. If the attitude and method are wrong, even someone does the “right” thing, it would not receive the “right” effect.

Matt. 18:16 “But if he will not hear, take with you one or two more, that ‘by the mouth of two or three witnesses every word may be established.’” YLT: “and if he may not hear, take with thee yet one or two, that by the mouth of two witnesses or three every word may stand.” Meaning of Words: “be established”: stand, set up, count. Literal Meaning: “by the mouth of two or three witnesses” “Two or three” is the principle to bear witness (See Deut. 19:15). Enlightenment in the Word: 1) One’s own strength is not enough to retrieve a brother. Then one should make him know that he is wrong by the mouth of two or three witnesses. 2) “Every word may be established” shows that the words of the witnesses must be profound. It shows that when we find someone to help others to be converted, we should choose the saints who are spiritually progressive.

Matt. 18:17 “And if he refuses to hear them, tell it to the church. But if he refuses even to hear the church, let him be to you like a heathen and a tax collector.” YLT: “`And if he may not hear them, say [it] to the assembly, and if also the assembly he may not hear, let him be to thee as the heathen man and the tax- gatherer.” Literal Meaning: “tell it to the church” shows that the church is able to hear. Therefore it is not the abstractive universal church, or the building of the church. It is the assembly of believers in some local place, i.e. local church. “But if he refuses even to hear the church, let him be to you like a heathen and a tax collector.” “Heathen”: gentile; “a tax collector” was usually despised by the Jews and was treated equally as a sinner (See Matt. 11:19). “Let him be to you like a heathen and a tax collector” means to have no company with him. However he may not be cast out of the church. Whether he will be excommunicated by the church is determined by whether the sin he has committed corresponds to the principle of excommunication (See 1Cor. 5:11-13). If his will is only too strong to summit to the church, the church should treat him indifferently and should not excommunicate him. Enlightenment in the Word: 1) The church is the last chance for retrieval when something (esp. sin) has happened among believers. If the strength of the whole could not help the brother who had committed sin, he must have fallen and are completely of flesh. Under this condition, we should not have company with him, that on one hand, he may be ashamed of himself (2Thess. 3:14), on the other, the testimony of the church may not suffer loss. 2) It is a great matter to make someone lose the fellowship in the assembly. Therefore those who have the lordship should handle with care and try their best to make peace. They shouldn’t exercise this authority unless they have to. 3) Those who lack “the spirit of retrieving brothers” are unworthy to talk about excommunicating brothers.

Matt. 18:18 “‘Assuredly, I say to you, whatever you bind on earth will be bound in heaven, and whatever you loose on earth will be loosed in heaven.” YLT: “`Verily I say to you, Whatever things ye may bind upon the earth shall be having been bound in the heavens, and whatever things ye may loose on the earth shall be having been loosed in the heavens.” Meaning of Words: “Bind”: impose sanction against, declare to forbid (legal terms); “loose”: release the punishment, declare to permit (legal terms). Literal Meaning: In this verse “bind” means “condemn” and “loose” means “forgive”. “They” here means “the church” in v.17. Enlightenment in the Word: When the state of the church is normal, her any move on earth is in perfect harmony with the movement in heaven. The Lord also does the things that the church does on earth. Whose sins the church remits or condemns, the Lord has remitted and condemned in heaven (John. 20:23).

Matt. 18:19 “‘Again I say to you that if two of you agree on earth concerning anything that they ask, it will be done for them by My Father in heaven.” YLT: “`Again, I say to you, that, if two of you may agree on the earth concerning anything, whatever they may ask it shall be done to them from my Father who is in the heavens,” Meaning of Words: “agree”: harmonious, accord, correspondence. Literal Meaning: “two of you” Here “two” does not mean the church, but two “of you” (of the church). “ Agree” in original means that the prayer and supplication of two are like harmonious music. Enlightenment in the Word: 1) If two agree concerning anything that they ask, God will do. It shows that God values the prayer of the body more than individual prayer. 2) If we want to have the harmonious prayer of two like concertos, those who pray must, like a member of a band, first tune up the instruments and concentrate on the conductor in order that the speed and tone of the music that they are playing or performing would be harmonious------if we want to pray harmoniously, we have to lay down our own opinions, and seek the will of Father in heaven together and ask by the will of Father. 3) If two or three believers pray on earth, we have to open our hearts towards God and let God reveal His words in our hearts so that His will may become our will. In this way, you shall ask what you will, and it shall be done unto you (See John. 15:7). 4) Only when we agree, the earth and the heaven will be harmonious and God will reign on earth just as He does in heaven (See Matt. 6:10).

Matt. 18:20 “For where two or three are gathered together in My name, I am there in the midst of them.’” YLT: “for where there are two or three gathered together to my name, there am I in the midst of them.’” Literal Meaning: “two or three are gathered together in My name.” Here “two or three” is not the whole church but a part of believers in the church; “are gathered together in My name” means that their gathering is not originated by themselves. They are moved by the Holy Spirit and lay down their individual opinions and standpoints, denying natural “selves” and they purely belong to and unite in the name of the Lord. “I am there in the midst of them.” Here it stresses on the Lord’s presence. Two or three are enough if it is with His presence. A thousand or ten thousand are not enough if it is without His presence. From v.15 to v.20 we could see that the principle of two or three is the principle of the church. As long as two or three agree and are gathered in the name of the Lord, they are able to represent the church to execute the heavenly power, their testimony is the testimony of the church, and their conclusion is the conclusion of the church and God Himself confirms and facilitates what they have said. However “agree” and “are gathered in the name of the Lord” must not be the outward form and it is effective only when they have spiritual reality. Enlightenment in the Word: 1) Two or three are gathered together in His name, the Lord is there. It shows that believers receive grace more obviously in the gathering than by oneself. 2) In the normal gathering, the Lord has to manifest Himself and guides, enlightens and reveals us by His presence. 3) The Lord’s presence is the most precious. The Lord’s presence is the foundation of the spiritual power of the church.

Matt. 18:21 “Then Peter came to Him and said, ‘Lord, how often shall my brother sin against me, and I forgive him? Up to seven times?’” YLT: “Then Peter having come near to him, said, `Sir, how often shall my brother sin against me, and I forgive him till seven times?’” The Background: according to traditional saying of Jewish rabbis, the highest time that one can forgive brother is up to four times. Literal Meaning: “how often shall I forgive him?” “Forgive” in original means “leave” and “let alone” and it means that one has forgot that he has been sinned against. If someone forgives others and still remembers the “times” that he has been sinned against, it shows that he has not forgotten the times that he has been sinned against. Therefore it cannot be counted as forgiveness. Enlightenment in the Word: 1) God has forgiven our sins and our sins and our lawlessnesses God will never remember any more (See Heb. 8:12, 10:17). When we forgive others, we should never remember their sins. 2) When we have been sinned against by others, on one hand, we should give consideration to them and hope them to be corrected, on the other, we should not have resentment, grievance and hurt in our hearts.

Matt. 18:22 “Jesus said to him, ‘I do not say to you, up to seven times, but up to seventy times seven.” YLT: “Jesus saith to him, `I do not say to thee till seven times, but till seventy times seven.” Spiritual Meaning: “seven” is a number of perfectness, however, it still can be counted, i.e. with limitation. “Seventy times seven” means that we should forgive others countless times and completely, i.e. without limitation. Enlightenment in the Word: 1) The one who truly forgives others does not remember the times that he has been sinned against by his brother at all because he has forgotten the matter that he has been sinned against. 2) Men’s forgiveness is limited and its most is seven times. The Lord’s forgiveness is unlimited and it reaches seventy times seven. Therefore we forgive each other by the forgiveness in the Lord instead of by men’s forgiveness.

Matt. 18:23 “Therefore the kingdom of heaven is like a certain king who wanted to settle accounts with his servants.” YLT: “`Because of this was the reign of the heavens likened to a man, a king, who did will to take reckoning with his servants,” Spiritual Meaning: “the king” is the Lord; “his servants” are believers; “settle accounts” indicates that the Holy Spirit works in men’s hearts and let them know how much they owe the Lord.

Matt. 18:24 “And when he had begun to settle accounts, one was brought to him who owed him ten thousand talents.” YLT: “and he having begun to take account, there was brought near to him one debtor of a myriad of talents,” The Background: “ten thousand talents” “talent” is the highest weigh unit at that time. A talent amounts to six thousand Roman denarius and therefore the total value he owes is sixty million denarius. At that time, the general salary is one denarius per day, i.e. a denarius (See Matt. 20.2). Literal Meaning: “ten thousand talents” shows that the amount he owes is too large for him to pay back. Enlightenment in the Word: 1) “Who owed him ten thousand talents” actually are believers. What we sin against and owe the Lord is uncountable. 2) Those who do not know that how greatly he owes the Lord must lack thankfulness.

Matt. 18:25 “But as he was not able to pay, his master commanded that he be sold, with his wife and children and all that he had, and that payment be made.” YLT: “and he having nothing to pay, his lord did command him to be sold, and his wife, and the children, and all, whatever he had, and payment to be made.” Literal Meaning: the Lord did not truly want us to sell our wives and children to pay back. The Lord here showed us that even if we have sold out all we have, we are still unable to repay what we owe the Lord. Enlightenment in the Word: the Lord will do the work of deprivation on those who have received grace till our natural oldness is dealt with completely.

Matt. 18:26 “The servant therefore fell down before him, saying, ‘Master, have patience with me, and I will pay you all.'” YLT: “The servant then, having fallen down, was bowing to him, saying, Sir, have patience with me, and I will pay thee all;” Spiritual Meaning: please note that it points out four kinds of attitudes that true believers should have: 1) “fell down”------repent; 2) “fell down before him”------abase himself; 3) “master, have patience with me”------ask for the Lord’s grace; 4) “I will pay you all”------make a vow to dedicate. Enlightenment in the Word: though we are unable to “pay the Lord all”, as long as we are willing to repent humbly (“fell down before him”), ask for His forgiveness (“master, have patience with me”) with a willing heart (“I will pay you all”), we will be acceptable to God (See 2Cor. 8:12).

Matt. 18:27 “Then the master of that servant was moved with compassion, released him, and forgave him the debt.” YLT: “and the lord of that servant having been moved with compassion did release him, and the debt he forgave him.” Meaning of Words: “was moved with compassion”: have compassion; “debt”: loan, liability. Enlightenment in the Word: the Lord is always merciful towards us and He likes us to ask for His grace. Every one that asks receives (Matt. 7:8) and He is able to do far exceedingly above all which we ask or think (Eph. 3:20).

Matt. 18:28 “‘But that servant went out and found one of his fellow servants who owed him a hundred denarii; and he laid hands on him and took him by the throat, saying, ‘Pay me what you owe!'” YLT: “`And, that servant having come forth, found one of his fellow-servants who was owing him an hundred denaries, and having laid hold, he took him by the throat, saying, Pay me that which thou owest.” Literal Meaning: when “a hundred denarii” is compared with “sixty million denarii” (See the note in v.24) that he owes the Lord, the difference is six hundred thousand times instead of a million times in Chinese and the Chinese union Bible. “ He laid hands on him and took him by the throat.” “Laid hands on him” indicates that he did not let him go; “by the throat” indicates that he treated his servant with brutal attitude and did not give him a chance to state the reason. Spiritual Meaning: “fellow servants” are believers, partakers of the heavenly calling; “a hundred denarii” is what believers owe each other. If compared with what we owe the Lord (ten thousand talents), it is really too slight.

Matt. 18:29 “So his fellow servant fell down at his feet and begged him, saying, ‘Have patience with me, and I will pay you all.'” YLT: “His fellow-servant then, having fallen down at his feet, was calling on him, saying, Have patience with me, and I will pay thee all;” Literal Meaning: please note that his fellow servant’s request is the same with his own request to the Lord in v.26.

Matt. 18:30 “And he would not, but went and threw him into prison till he should pay the debt.” YLT: “and he would not, but having gone away, he cast him into prison, till he might pay that which was owing.” Spiritual Meaning: “threw him into prison” means that he dealt with others’ debt on “the principle of righteousness” and did not want to forgive others on “the principle of grace”. Enlightenment in the Word: his answer to his fellow servant is totally different from the Lord’s attitude towards him. It shows that the works and deeds of natural men are totally different from that of the Lord. We like to treat ourselves with grace and treat others with righteousness. The Lord asks us to treat ourselves with righteousness and treat others with grace.

Matt. 18:31 “So when his fellow servants saw what had been done, they were very grieved, and came and told their master all that had been done.” YLT: “`And his fellow-servants having seen the things that were done, were grieved exceedingly, and having come, shewed fully to their lord all the things that were done;” Spiritual Meaning: this is the supplication of the saints and their supplication comes up before God. Enlightenment in the Word: if we owe brother, saints who are members of the body will fell grieved because whether one member suffer, all the members suffer with it (1Cor. 12:26).

Matt. 18:32 “Then his master, after he had called him, said to him, ‘You wicked servant! I forgave you all that debt because you begged me.” YLT: “then having called him, his lord saith to him, Evil servant! all that debt I did forgive thee, seeing thou didst call upon me,”

Matt. 18:33 “Should you not also have had compassion on your fellow servant, just as I had pity on you?'” YLT: “did it not behove also thee to have dealt kindly with thy fellow-servant, as I also dealt kindly with thee?” Enlightenment in the Word: 1) Since the large debt of the wicked servant that he is unable to repay has been forgiven by the Lord, he should forgive his fellow servant who owes him a little. In the same way, believers who have been forgiven by heavenly Father for their monstrous sins should forgive brother who has sinned against them large- mindedly. 2) Since the Lord has treated us with grace, we should also treat others with grace. If we forget the grace that we have received from the Lord, we will easily become unsympathetic ones.

Matt. 18:34 “And his master was angry, and delivered him to the torturers until he should pay all that was due to him.” YLT: “`And having been wroth, his lord delivered him to the inquisitors, till he might pay all that was owing to him;” Literal Meaning: this verse means that it is handled according to the Law. Enlightenment in the Word: If we treat others on the principle of righteousness, the Lord will treat us on the principle of righteousness until we have fulfilled the request of righteousness (“until he should pay all that was due to him”). Actually, we are unable to pay all that is due to us forever. If we do not repent fervently while we are alive today, we will never be remitted by God from His punishments (“delivered him to the torturers”).

Matt. 18:35 “‘So My heavenly Father also will do to you if each of you, from his heart, does not forgive his brother his trespasses.’” YLT: “so also my heavenly Father will do to you, if ye may not forgive each one his brother from your hearts their trespasses.’” Enlightenment in the Word: 1) The best way for us to receive God’s forgiveness is to forgive others. 2) Those who are unwilling to forgive others do not know their own iniquity. Anyone who truly knows that his iniquity in light will forgive his brother from his heart. 3) “From his heart” shows that our forgiveness is not oral or apparent but earnest and sincere. Once one has forgiven his brother from his heart, he will never remember the previous iniquity of his brother. Anyone who still remembers the iniquity of his brother in his heart has not forgiven his brother from his heart, i.e. he has not “paid all that is due to him” in v.34. Therefore unavoidably he will be punished by the heavenly Father. 4) Anyone who is able to forgive others from his heart is “great” in the kingdom of heaven.

The Interpersonal Relationship among the Citizens of the Kingdom of Heaven I. The principle for citizens of the kingdom of heaven to treat others: A. Receive one little child like this (v.1-5). B. Do not cause one of these little ones who that believe the Lord to sin (v.6- 9). C. Do not despise one of these little ones (v.10). D. Do not cause one of these little ones to get lost (v.11-14). II. The reaction citizens of the kingdom of heaven should have when being sinned against by others: A. One should try his best to retrieve his brother: 1. Go and tell him his fault privately (v.15). 2. If he would not hear, take with you one or two witnesses (v.16). 3. If he refuses to hear them, tell it to the church (v.17a). 4. The conclusion of the church is the conclusion in heaven (v.17b-18). 5. Two or three agree to pray or are gathered in the name of the Lord, the Lord confirms them and is in the midst of them (v.19-20). B. One should forgive his brother from his heart: 1. Forgive others up to seventy times seven (v.21-22) ------without limitation. 2. Know that how much we owe the Lord and He has forgiven us (v.23- 27). 3. However we treat others without any compassion and are unwilling to forgive others (v.28-30). 4. Those who do not treat others with compassion will be treated in the same way by God (v.31-35). The Qualifications of the Citizens of the Kingdom of Heaven I. Be as humble as children (v.1-4). II. Do not offend others and try his best to remove the reasons that may offend others (v.5-9). III. Do not despise one of these little ones (v.9-14). IV. Gain his brother and live a normal life of church (v.15-20). V. Forgive his brother from his heart (v.21-35).

The Reason to Offend Men I. Be conceited and arrogant (v.1-6). II. The incautious works (hand), actions (foot), and opinions (eyes) (v.7-14). III. One hasn’t tried his best to retrieve his brother after he has been sinned against (v.15-20). IV. One has not forgiven his brother from his heart (v.21-35).

Matthew Chapter Nineteen

Various Kinds of Problems of Life and the Correct Answers I. The sickness and pain of body and spirit------follow the Lord and they will be healed (v.1-2). II. The problem of divorce------men should not destroy the oneness that is set by God (v.3-9). III. The problem of virgin------only those to whom it has been given can accept (v.10-12). IV. The problem whether little children are worthy to be blessed------for of such is the kingdom of heaven (v.13-15). V. The problem of having eternal life through doing good works------with men this is impossible, but with God all things are possible (v.16-26). VI. The problem of gaining the reward in future------it depends on that how we leave today (v.27-30).

II. Verse by Verse commentary Matt. 19:1 “Now it came to pass, when Jesus had finished these sayings, that He departed from Galilee and came to the region of Judea beyond the Jordan.” YLT: “And it came to pass, when Jesus finished these words, he removed from Galilee, and did come to the borders of Judea, beyond the Jordan,” Literal Meaning: “came to the region of Judea” He was going away to Jerusalem (See Matt. 16:21) and He was about to be crucified there (See Matt. 20:17-19). Therefore His course after this is the way of cross. “Beyond the Jordan” was the land of Beriah which is on the east bank of the Jordan. It was ruled by Herod Antipas and its south border is the Dead Sea. It shows that He did not pass through Samaria this time.

Matt. 19:2 “And great multitudes followed Him, and He healed them there.” YLT: “and great multitudes followed him, and he healed them there.” Enlightenment in the Word: 1) “The Lake of Jordan” (See v.1) was the place where the Lord was baptized (See Matt. 3:13) ------when we fully put ourselves in the place of death, we will draw many people to follow the Lord. 2) It was full of the sickness of pride, offending others, sinning against others and not forgiving others in Matt. 18. However, as long as they followed the Lord until they were beneath the cross, they were all healed. 3) Many people were sick either in body or spirit. The key for men to be healed is to walk on the way of cross, following the Lord.

Matt. 19:3 “The Pharisees also came to Him, testing Him, and saying to Him, ‘Is it lawful for a man to divorce his wife for just any reason?’” YLT: “And the Pharisees came near to him, tempting him, and saying to him, `Is it lawful for a man to put away his wife for every cause?’” Meaning of Words: “divorce”: free fully, release, depart. The Background: the Jewish rabbis allowed men to divorce according to Deut. 24:1. However they disagreed with each other concerning the lawful reasons for divorce. There were mainly two groups (Shammi and Hillel). They argued with each other, holding their own opinions. The Shammi held that “the unseemly thing” in that verse indicated the unfaithfulness in marriage and it was the only reason for divorce. However the Hillel, stressing on the former sentence “she finds no favor in his eyes” in that verse, held that as long as the wife did something that made her husband dislike her, her husband was allowed to divorce her. Literal Meaning: the Pharisees only stressed on the words of the Law and neglected the spirit of the Law (See Matt. 23:23), and therefore their teachings were incompatible with the Lord’s teachings. Here they wanted to tempt the Lord by the Law of Moses and take hold of Him. Enlightenment in the Word: the Pharisees represent religious believers who stress on letters and regulations. If we only stress on the letters of the Bible and neglect the spiritual reality, we will become the present Pharisees.

Matt. 19:4 “And He answered and said to them, ‘Have you not read that He who made them at the beginning ‘made them male and female,'” YLT: “And he answering said to them, `Did ye not read, that He who made [them], from the beginning a male and a female made them,” Literal Meaning: the Lord’s answer brought men to the state of “beginning”. When God created men at the beginning, He made them male and female (Gen. 1:27, 5:2) and His intention is for the union of male and female. Therefore marriage is set up by God Himself.

Matt. 19:5 “and said, ‘For this reason a man shall leave his father and mother and be joined to his wife, and the two shall become one flesh'?” YLT: “and said, For this cause shall a man leave father and mother, and cleave to his wife, and they shall be the two for one flesh?” Literal Meaning: v.4 shows God intention through His creation and this verse proves that marriage is predestinated by God by His words (Gen. 2:24); moreover, God’s predestination is a man and a woman instead of polygamy. Spiritual Meaning: “the two shall become one flesh” symbolizes Christ and the church (Eph. 5:31-32). Enlightenment in the Word: 1) The relation between husband and wife is more than the relation between parents and children. 2) Only when we are delivered from the root of natural life (“leave his father and mother”) can we be of one mind with all the saints in the church (“be joined to his wife”).

Matt. 19:6 “So then, they are no longer two but one flesh. Therefore what God has joined together, let not man separate.’” YLT: “so that they are no more two, but one flesh; what therefore God did join together, let no man put asunder.” Literal Meaning: “they are no longer two but one flesh.” After the unions of marriage, in God’s sight they are no longer two but one flesh. Therefore when recording the number of people, woman are not counted (See Matt. 14:21, 15:38). “What God has joined together, let not man separate.” Every pair of husband and wife is joined by God and they are “one flesh” before God. Therefore if they are divorced, it is to awkwardly separate one flesh into two halves. Enlightenment in the Word: 1) God has jointed Christ and the church and let not man separate------do not let any spiritual person, thing, doctrine and regulation interfere in Christ and the church. 2) “God has joined together, let not man separate.” God has tempered the body together in the church and therefore we should not make divisions (See 1Cor. 12:24-25).

Matt. 19:7 “They said to Him, ‘Why then did Moses command to give a certificate of divorce, and to put her away?’” YLT: “They say to him, `Why then did Moses command to give a roll of divorce, and to put her away?’” Literal Meaning: here it indicates the regulation of divorcing one’s wife which was made by Moses (Deut. 24:1). However, it was not the positive teaching but negative “permission” (See v.8).

Matt. 19:8 “He said to them, ‘Moses, because of the hardness of your hearts, permitted you to divorce your wives, but from the beginning it was not so.” YLT: “He saith to them `Moses for your stiffness of heart did suffer you to put away your wives, but from the beginning it hath not been so.” Literal Meaning: Moses permitted men to divorce their wives because “the hardness of their hearts” instead of God’s intention “at the beginning”. Therefore it does not show that God likes men to divorce their wives. Enlightenment in the Word: 1) When men do not listen to the words of God, God may “permit” them or “give them up” for their own wills (See Rom. 1:28). But it is definitely not the God’s will. 2) Everything should be judged whether it corresponds to the will of God according to the opinion “at the beginning” instead of the existing fact.

Matt. 19:9 “And I say to you, whoever divorces his wife, except for sexual immorality, and marries another, commits adultery; and whoever marries her who is divorced commits adultery.’” YLT: “`And I say to you, that, whoever may put away his wife, if not for whoredom, and may marry another, doth commit adultery; and he who did marry her that hath been put away, doth commit adultery.’” Literal Meaning: the only reason for normal divorce is that a part has committed adultery because in God’s sight adultery is the behavior to destroy the union of husband and wife. Once the union of husband and wife before God has been destroyed, there is no need to maintain the superficial union. “Fornication” in original means “harlotry and prostitution”. It does not seem to be the accidental sin but the habitual behavior; “adultery” in original means “the sexual behavior of married ones that destroys the marital relations” Enlightenment in the Word: 1) The Pharisees only stressed on letters of the Law (See v.7) and the Lord stressed on the spirit of the Law. The letter kills but the spirit quickens (See 2Cor. 3:6). 2) Believers should not walk according to the tide of the world or be only satisfied with obeying the national laws. Believers should prove the will of God in everything (See Rom. 12:2).

Matt. 19:10 “His disciples said to Him, ‘If such is the case of the man with his wife, it is better not to marry.’” YLT: “His disciples say to him, ‘If the case of the man with the woman is so, it is not good to marry.’” Literal Meaning: the disciples meant that once men get married, they are restrained and they won’t be released except for sexual immorality. If such is the case, it is better not to marry. Enlightenment in the Word: the attitude that one does not marry because he fears the unhappy marriage is not praised by God. Today the phenomenon that a man and a woman cohabit and do not get married prevails is due to this kind of attitude. Matt. 19:11 “But He said to them, ‘All cannot accept this saying, but only those to whom it has been given:” YLT: “And he said to them, `All do not receive this word, but those to whom it hath been given;” Meaning of Words: “accept”: receive, admit, contain, and make room for. Literal Meaning: whether one marries or not is not his will. Only those to whom the gift of God is given (See 1Cor. 7:7, 37) are able to not marry. If someone does not have this gift and is reluctant to not marry, probably he will not overcome temptations (See 1Cor. 7:2, 9). Enlightenment in the Word: 1) This verse shows God will: to the majority, God likes them to marry, beget sons and daughters, and lead the whole family to serve God (See Josh. 24:15); to the minority, God gives them special gifts to serve God whole-heartedly (See 1Cor. 7:33-35). 2) Every spiritual thing should be in accordance with whether one has received from God. To the one to whom it has been given, he should hold fast it. To the one to whom it has not been given, he should not imitate artificially or force others to do so.

Matt. 19:12 “For there are eunuchs who were born thus from their mother's womb, and there are eunuchs who were made eunuchs by men, and there are eunuchs who have made themselves eunuchs for the kingdom of heaven's sake. He who is able to accept it, let him accept it.’” YLT: “for there are eunuchs who from the mother’s womb were so born; and there are eunuchs who were made eunuchs by men; and there are eunuchs who kept themselves eunuchs because of the reign of the heavens: he who is able to receive [it] let him receive.’” Literal Meaning: “there are eunuchs who were born thus” indicates those who innately physiological defects and lose the sexual ability. It is inborn impotency. “Eunuchs who were made eunuchs by men” indicate those who are forced to lose the sexual ability because of environment or punishment. It is acquired impotency. “There are eunuchs who have made themselves eunuchs for the kingdom of heaven’s sake.” “Made themselves eunuchs” does not mean to “cut themselves off” (See Gal. 5:12) or the asceticism (See Col. 2:23, 1Tim. 4:3). It meant that those who have been given the gifts from God have insipid feelings towards those with the opposite sex. Therefore they decide to not marry all their life, lest they may be distracted by family. Then they should care for the things of the Lord and the kingdom whole-heartedly and serve the Lord fervently (See 1Cor. 7:32-35). “He who is able to accept it, let him accept it.” “It” means the word that one does not marry instead of the word that one should not divorce. Therefore this verse shows that one to whom it has not been given is unable to make himself eunuch for the kingdom of heaven’s sake. Enlightenment in the Word: 1) Those who make themselves eunuchs for the kingdom of heaven’s sake have been given special gifts and they have special positions in the kingdom of heaven (See Rev. 14:4). 2) If believers have not been given the gift to keep their virginity, it is better for them to choose the suitable marriage partner after marriageable age according to normal human feelings. It is wise for them to live a life of matrimony.

Matt. 19:13 “Then little children were brought to Him that He might put His hands on them and pray, but the disciples rebuked them.” YLT: “Then were brought near to him children that he might put hands on them and pray, and the disciples rebuked them.” Literal Meaning: “that He might put His hands on them and pray” shows that they ask the Lord to bless them. “ But the disciples rebuked them.” It is most probably that the disciples thought the little children little, naïve and ignorant and they should not block the Lord’s journey to Jerusalem. Spiritual Meaning: “put His hand on them” has two spiritual meanings: 1) The one who has been put on of hands and the one who puts his hand on others are united to one (See 1Tim. 5:22); 2) The one who puts his hands on others delivers blessing to the one who has been put on of hands (See 2Tim. 1:6). Enlightenment in the Word: in men’s natural concept, it is full of the thoughts of divisions of honor and lowliness (See James. 2:1-7). Unconsciously, believers may be puffed up one for one against another (See 1Cor. 4:6). However those who fear the Lord should not be with respect of persons (See James. 2:1).

Matt. 19:14 “But Jesus said, ‘Let the little children come to Me, and do not forbid them; for of such is the kingdom of heaven.’” YLT: “But Jesus said, `Suffer the children, and forbid them not, to come unto me, for of such is the reign of the heavens;’” Literal Meaning: “for of such” that are like little children indicate being like the pure, humble and dependent characters of little children and these are the qualifications to enter the kingdom of heaven (See Matt. 18:3). Enlightenment in the Word: 1) In the church, nothing is so little that the Lord does not care about and therefore we should bring all things whether it is great or not to the Lord. 2) In the church, no one is so great that he thinks that something is too small for them and disdains to do it. 3) Those who think that they own nothing and ask for the Lord humbly will be acceptable to the Lord.

Matt. 19:15 “And He laid His hands on them and departed from there.” YLT: “and having laid on them [his] hands, he departed thence.” Enlightenment in the Word: 1) The Lord not only did not despise our lowliness but also was willing to be united to the humble and blessed us. 2) “Departed from there” shows that men do not always have the chance. We should seize any chance to be given grace and ask for the Lord’s grace. We should not wait until he departs and at that time it is too late.

Matt. 19:16 “Now behold, one came and said to Him, ‘Good Teacher, what good thing shall I do that I may have eternal life?’” YLT: “And lo, one having come near, said to him, `Good teacher, what good thing shall I do, that I may have life age-during?’” Literal Meaning: “one” is a young rich man (See v.22). “Good teacher” shows that he saw Jesus as “teacher” to teach others instead of the “savior” to save all the people (See John 3:2). “ What good thing shall I do that I may have eternal life?” This sentence includes four meanings: 1) He knew the importance to “have eternal life”. 2) He confessed that there was no eternal life in him 3) He thought that he may have eternal life by doing good thing. 4) He did not know what good thing to do in order to have eternal life. “Have eternal life” is “be saved” (See v.25). It means to have the eternal life of God and to be delivered from the eternal perdition (See John. 3:16). Matt. 19:17 “So He said to him, ‘Why do you call Me good? No one is good but One, that is, God. But if you want to enter into life, keep the commandments.’” YLT: “And he said to him, `Why me dost thou call good? no one [is] good except One God; but if thou dost will to enter into the life, keep the commands.’” Literal Meaning: “Why do you call Me good?” shows that the Lord deeply did not approve of his view in his words that one could have eternal life by doing good thing. “ No one is good but One, that is, God” means that there is none good, besides God (See Rom. 3:10). That the Lord said so did not show that He thought him sinful or same with normal men. However it shows that: 1) God is the source of true goodness. 2) Men do not have true goodness once they depart from God. “But if you want to enter into life” Speaking from the broad sense, “enter into life” and “have eternal life” are synonyms. However, speaking from the narrow sense, they are different. “Have eternal life” means that God’s life enters into us as our life and keeps us alive forever. Therefore it is also called “be saved” (See v.25); “enter into life” means to enter into the realm of eternal life and be delivered from the everlasting perdition (See Matt. 25:46); It is not necessary that only those who have eternal life are able to enter into the eternal life because the Lord Jesus pointed out in another parable that as long as someone treats one of the least of these, he is qualified to enter into the eternal life (See Matt. 25:41- 46). Some Bible exegetes explained “enter into life” as “walk according to the life of God”. However, the young rich man had not received the Lord’s salvation and he had not received the Lord’s life. Therefore the Lord wouldn’t ask him to walk according to God’s life. “Keep the commandments” means that one is able to enter into life as long as he keeps the commandments because if men truly keep the Law, they will live in them (See Gal. 3:12). However, the problem is that nobody is able to keep the whole law by himself. Therefore the Lord here mentioned “keep the commandments” so as to enlighten him about two things: 1) the commandments show God’s love and His holy and righteous disposition; 2) since men are unable to keep the whole law, by this the Lord wanted to make him learn his corruption from failure and comprehend that men are unable to have eternal life by doing good thing. Enlightenment in the Word: 1) A worthless tree cannot produce good fruits (See Matt. 7:18). The world cannot do something good through the evil nature. 2) The good man out of the good treasure brings forth good things (See Matt. 12:35). However, only God is good. Therefore no matter what we do, the things we do cannot be counted as good in God’s sight. 3) That except the righteousness of believers shall exceed the righteousness of the Pharisees, we shall in no case enter into the kingdom of heaven (See Matt. 5:20). Therefore, we should not only keep the commandments of the Old Testament concerning morality but also keep the new commandments issued by the king of the kingdom of heaven (Matt.5-7).

Matt. 19:18 “He said to Him, ‘Which ones?’ Jesus said, ‘You shall not murder,' ‘You shall not commit adultery,' ‘You shall not steal,' ‘You shall not bear false witness,'” YLT: “He saith to him, `What kind?’ And Jesus said, ‘Thou shalt not kill, thou shalt not commit adultery, thou shalt not steal, thou shalt not bear false witness,” Literal Meaning: these commandments are the regulations about interpersonal relations in the Old Testament (See Exod. 20:12-16, Lev. 19:18). Enlightenment in the Word: 1) Though believers of the New Testament do not need to keep the commandments of ceremonies in the Old Testament, we should still keep the commandments of morality. 2) In the church we should keep spiritual commandments: 1) do not spread the factor of death------murder; 2) do not bring in the world------commit adultery; 3) do not usurp the glory of God------steal; 4) do not bear witness to things besides Christ------bear false witness.

Matt. 19:19 “‘Honor your father and your mother,' and, ‘You shall love your neighbor as yourself.’” YLT: “honour thy father and mother, and, thou shalt love thy neighbor as thyself.’”

Matt. 19:20 “The young man said to Him, ‘All these things I have kept from my youth. What do I still lack?’” YLT: “The young man saith to him, `All these did I keep from my youth; what yet do I lack?’” Literal Meaning: unfortunately, this young man had not seen his incapacity and thought that he had kept all these things. Enlightenment in the Word: 1) Those who think themselves righteous indeed live in darkness and they are unable to see their transgressions. 2) As long as someone has offended in the least commandment of the Law, he is guilty of all (See James. 2:10). Moreover, men could keep the commandments in letters at most and they unavoidably sin against the commandments in spirit.

Matt. 19:21 “Jesus said to him, ‘If you want to be perfect, go, sell what you have and give to the poor, and you will have treasure in heaven; and come, follow Me.’” YLT: “Jesus said to him, ‘If thou dost will to be perfect, go away, sell what thou hast, and give to the poor, and thou shalt have treasure in heaven, and come, follow me.’” Literal Meaning: here the Lord raised the strictest claim to show his imperfectness. “If you want to be perfect” implies that he was not “perfect” at that time------even if men have kept all the commandments, they are still imperfect in the sight of the Lord. “Go, sell what you have” shows that “what he has” is the clear proof for his imperfectness and therefore he should sell what he has. “Give to the poor” shows that if he is unable to “give what he has to the poor”, it proves that he couldn’t “love his neighbor as himself” (See v.20). “You will have treasure in heaven” shows that what he has is only on earth and he has nothing in heaven. “ Come, follow Me” indicates that even if he has given what he has to the poor, probably the poor instead of the Lord are in his heart (See Matt. 26:11). Therefore he has to “follow the Lord”, i.e. he has to love the Lord more than all (See Matt. 10:37-38). According to the context, this verse is not the general rule to ask every Christian to lead a poor life. The Lord asked the young man to do so, with a purpose of letting him know that he hasn’t kept all the commandments indeed (See v.20) and therefore he may come to realize that men cannot have eternal life through doing good (See v.16). Enlightenment in the Word: 1) On this verse hangs all the Law: “go, sell what you have and give to the poor”, i.e. “love your neighbor as yourselves”; “come, follow Me” is “love the Lord thy God”. 2) The Lord demands more and more: 1) “go and sell”------it is possible for common ones to sell the possession for money (See Acts. 5:1); 2) “give to the poor”------it is very difficult; 3) “come, follow Me”------it is more difficult because what one gives is the external things besides the body and what he follows is “the whole person”. 3) The Lord asked the young man to sell what he has and then follow the Lord, showing that what we have are always the obstacles to follow the Lord. 4) Believers should not only pay attention to their own needs but also care for the needs of others. Look not every man on his own things, but every man also on the things of others. (Pill. 2:4).

Matt. 19:22 “But when the young man heard that saying, he went away sorrowful, for he had great possessions.” YLT: “And the young man, having heard the word, went away sorrowful, for he had many possessions;” Enlightenment in the Word: 1) Anyone that keeps something for himself and is unwilling to follow the Lord leads a sorrowful life. 2) If it is by grace, even little children are put hands on by the Lord and receive blessing (See v.13-15); if it is by deeds, even someone who has kept all the commandments (See v.20) went away sorrowful consequently. 3) The more possessions men have, the greedier men are. This situation can also be applied in spiritual things, if men stress on spiritual possessions besides the Lord such as eloquence, knowledge, and gifts, they will be sorrowful consequently. 4) Those who love treasure more than the Lord make themselves sorrowful. However those who love the Lord more than all have the fullness of joyful though they have lost their goods (See Heb. 10:34). 5) Great possessions may hold men back from following the Lord; not only the material sufficiency but also spiritual complacency will hold men back from being given grace. 6) Though that young man had come to Christ, he had not obtained Christ; if we cannot forsake all things “what things were gain to me”------the former spiritual achievement, or seek Christ earnestly, probably we will not fully obtain Christ (See Pill. 3:7, 12). 7) Earthly things and heavenly things cannot be complete in both respects. So are worldly things and spiritual things. If believers are reluctant to give up the earthly and worldly things, they have no hope to be heavenly and spiritually rich.

Matt. 19:23 “Then Jesus said to His disciples, ‘Assuredly, I say to you that it is hard for a rich man to enter the kingdom of heaven.” YLT: “and Jesus said to his disciples, `Verily I say to you, that hardly shall a rich man enter into the reign of the heavens;” Literal Meaning: “it is hard for a rich man to enter the kingdom of heaven.” “Enter the kingdom” means “enter the kingdom of God” (See v.24). On one hand, being born from above is the prerequisite to enter the kingdom of God (See John. 3:3, 5). And as long as we believe in the Lord, we will be born from above and therefore it is not difficult for a rich man to enter the kingdom of heaven; on the other, the Lord asked that rich man to “sell what he has and give to the poor, come and follow Him” as the prerequisite to enter the kingdom of God. Therefore “enter the kingdom of heaven” here is not equal to “have eternal life” and “be saved”. “Entering the kingdom of heaven” in the Gospel of Matthew means that believers must live in the reality of the kingdom of heaven in this life as genuine citizens of the kingdom of heaven and when the Lord comes back, they are able to gain the glory of the kingdom. Considering this meaning, it is indeed difficult for a rich man to enter the kingdom. Spiritual Meaning: the spiritual definition of “a rich man” those who own something besides the Lord and are unwilling to deny themselves or lose the enjoyments of souls for the sake of the Lord (See Matt. 16:24-25).

Matt. 19:24 “And again I say to you, it is easier for a camel to go through the eye of a needle than for a rich man to enter the kingdom of God.’” YLT: “and again I say to you, it is easier for a camel through the eye of a needle to go, than for a rich man to enter into the reign of God.’” The Background: “to go through the eye of a needle,” There is always another smaller door besides the normal gate concerning the Jewish city gates in ancient times. The small door is called “the door of the eye of a needle”. During the day, the bigger gate is open for the coming in and going out of men and goods; until the evening, the bigger gate is closed and only the door of the eye of a needle is open. That smaller door is so small that only men are allowed to come in and go out. Therefore when the camel carrying goods wants to pass the door, the goods have to be unloaded first and then the camel has to incline and crawl, with men’s push and drawing and then the camel is able to pass the door. Then “a camel to go through the eye of a needle” has become a saying to describe that something is very difficult but it is not absolutely impossible. Enlightenment in the Word: 1) Though it is difficult for rich men to enter the kingdom of heaven, it is not absolutely impossible; “camel” is the animal to carry goods and it represents treasure------as long as one is willing to dedicate the treasure for the use of the Lord, he will come in. 2) Though it is difficult for the great camel to go through the small eye of a needle, as long as the principle of cross is applied, that is to deny oneself, burn self into ashes and come to naught, it is possible to pass through.

Matt. 19:25 “When His disciples heard it, they were greatly astonished, saying, ‘Who then can be saved?’” YLT: “And his disciples having heard, were amazed exceedingly, saying, `Who, then, is able to be saved?’” Literal Meaning: broadly speaking, “be saved”, “have eternal life” (v.16), “enter into life” (v.17), “enter the kingdom of heaven” (v.23) and “enter the kingdom of God” are synonyms. However, narrowly speaking, they are divided into three kinds: 1) “be saved” and “have eternal life” are the same (See the note of v.16); 2) “enter into life” itself is a kind; 3) “enter the kingdom of heaven” is equal with “enter the kingdom of God” (See the note of v.23).

Matt. 19:26 “But Jesus looked at them and said to them, ‘With men this is impossible, but with God all things are possible.’” YLT: “And Jesus having earnestly beheld, said to them, `With men this is impossible, but with God all things are possible.’” Enlightenment in the Word: 1) Not only the young man thought that it is impossible for man to enter the kingdom of heaven (See v.22), but also the disciples thought it is impossible (See v.25). The Lord Himself also proved that, “with men this is impossible”. Men are impossible to enter the kingdom of heaven by themselves. 2) “With God all things are possible.” God is able to change the impossibility of men into possibility. God’s way is to give Himself to men, strengthen men in them and enable men to “have strength for all things” (See Pill. 4:13). 3) “With men this is impossible” declares the uselessness of men’s deeds; “but with God all things are possible” manifests the fullness of God’s grace. Only by faith instead of deeds can we be saved (See Eph. 2:8-9). 4) After we have been saved, we have to rely on God’s “possibility of all things” to do good works (See Eph. 2:10), then we will indeed live in the reality of the kingdom of heaven (See 2Pet. 1:10-11).

Matt. 19:27 “Then Peter answered and said to Him, ‘See, we have left all and followed You. Therefore what shall we have?’” YLT: “Then Peter answering said to him, `Lo, we did leave all, and follow thee, what then shall we have?’” Literal Meaning: Peter meant that since we have left something, we should have something in future and it is reasonable. Though it is not wrong, it is with the nature of exchange and its motive is not noble. Enlightenment in the Word: 1) Peter’s “see” shows his “possession”. He is “a spiritually rich man” and really has something to boast. 2) The reason why that we are able to leave something to follow the Lord is God’s attraction, working and strengthening and therefore we should glorify God.

Matt. 19:28 “So Jesus said to them, ‘Assuredly I say to you, that in the regeneration, when the Son of Man sits on the throne of His glory, you who have followed Me will also sit on twelve thrones, judging the twelve tribes of Israel.” YLT: “And Jesus said to them, `Verily I say to you, that ye who did follow me, in the regeneration, when the Son of Man may sit upon a throne of his glory, shall sit ye also upon twelve thrones, judging the twelve tribes of Israel;” Meaning of Words: “regeneration”: renovation, restoration and rebirth. Literal Meaning: “in the regeneration” indicates the time when the Lord comes back, brings in the kingdom of a thousand years and the times of the restitutions of all things (See Acts. 3:21); at that time, the Lord shall reign on the throne (Rev. 11:15) and thrones more than two shall be given to the overcomers who have followed Him including the twelve apostles who will judge Israel and the peoples (Rev. 20:4). Enlightenment in the Word: 1) Since God is righteous, He will never disregard our intention and deeds to leave all things to follow Him and we will gain reward assuredly. 2) We are saved by God’s grace (Eph. 2:8) and we gain the reward of the kingdom by men’s deeds (Rev. 22:12).

Matt. 19:29 “And everyone who has left houses or brothers or sisters or father or mother or wife or children or lands, for My name's sake, shall receive a hundredfold, and inherit eternal life.” YLT: “and every one who left houses, or brothers, or sisters, or father, or mother, or wife, or children, or fields, for my name’s sake, an hundredfold shall receive, and life age-during shall inherit;” Meaning of Words: “inherit”: be heir, obtain by inherence. Literal Meaning: “shall receive a hundredfold” indicated to obtain full enjoyment and joy in this age (See Mark. 10:30). Any brother and sister in the Lord are closer than one’s own family members and one is able to share their possessions. “And inherit eternal life” indicates to obtain the blessing of the everlasting life in the coming age (See Luke. 18:30). Enlightenment in the Word: 1) The reward of the kingdom is both in this age and the coming age. 2) The reward of the kingdom of heaven is a “hundredfold” and this reward is Christ Himself because Christ is fully perfect.

Matt. 19:30 “But many who are first will be last, and the last first.” YLT: “and many first shall be last, and last first.” Literal Meaning: “but many who are first will be last.” It is the word of warning; the word “but” is the warning to Peter’s self-complacence towards his present state (See v.27). If men boast or show off that they have left something for the Lord, they will “be last”. “The last first” is the word of encouragement. Though one may be last in the beginning, all things are not determined by this. Therefore it is still possible to turn to be first. Enlightenment in the Word: 1) To those who ran well (See Gal. 5:7), even if they do not have the spirit of pride, if they slack off and do not try their best to run (See Pill. 3:13-14, Heb. 12:1), they will fall behind. 2) For the reward of the kingdom we should try our best to run (1Cor. 9:24) and finish the race (2Tim. 4:7), then we may be “first”. 3) Our duty is to run and the Lord is the one who judges who is first or last.

The Relation between Our Behaviors and the Kingdom I. Behaviors are related to entering the kingdom of heaven: A. One has to overcome the difficulty of sickness (v.1-2). B. One has to overcome the difficulty of lust (v.3-12). C. One has to overcome the difficulty of pride (v.13-15). D. One has to overcome the difficulty of the love of money (v.16-26). II. Behaviors are related to gaining the reward of the kingdom: A. One has to leave all and then is able to obtain the reward of the kingdom (v.27-29). B. There are “first” and “last” in gaining the reward of the kingdom (v.30).

The Lord’s Different Attitudes and Requests towards Different Kinds of Men I. To sick ones------He sympathized them and saved them (v.1-2). II. To the Pharisees who tempted Him------He was unwilling to sacrifice the truth and compromise with them (v.3-12). III. To the disciples who lacked love------He showed them an example of love (v.13-15). IV. To the young and rich man who conducted himself virtuously------He pointed out his weakness (v.16-22). V. To those who denied themselves to follow Him------He showed clearly the blessing (v.23-30).

God’s Intentions at the beginning I. God wants to be united to men: A. God’s intention at the beginning is to show that He wants to be united to men through “the two shall become one flesh” (v.3-6). B. Men disregard God’s intention at the beginning because of the hardness of their hearts (v.7-8). C. Sin (adultery) has destroyed the oneness (v.8-10). D. God shows His grace to the minority and makes them fully live for God for the sake of the kingdom of heaven (v.11-12). II. God wants to be men’s full provision: A. Men hold that they can partake in the heavenly blessing through their own strength (the grown-ups) (v.13-15). B. Men want to obtain the reward of eternal life through doing good works (v.16). C. All the thing that men have contrarily hold men back from receiving the heavenly blessing (v.17-22). D. Men have to give up their own effort and struggle and fully trust and rely on God (v.23-26). E. If men leave all they have, they will receive God as the fullness of reward------the reward of the kingdom (v.27-30).

Matthew Chapter Twenty

The Eyes of Those Who Followed the Lord I. The parable of the vineyard------they cared about the wages that they received------evil eyes (v.1-16). II. The instruction of the way of cross------the ignorant disciples------blind eyes (v.17-19). III. The differences between the heavenly and earthly kingdom------the disciples argued for status among each other------evil eyes (v.20-28). IV. The Lord healed two blind men------they disregarded blocks and received mercy finally and then followed the Lord------blind eyes were opened (v.29-34).

Matt. 20:1 “‘For the kingdom of heaven is like a landowner who went out early in the morning to hire laborers for his vineyard.” YLT: “`For the reign of the heavens is like to a man, a householder, who went forth with the morning to hire workmen for his vineyard,” Literal Meaning: “for” shows that the parable here is related to the reward of the kingdom in chapter 19. “Who went out early in the morning to hire laborers.” Concerning the working hours of the ancient Jews, a day is counted from sunrise------six o’clock in the morning to sunset------six o’clock in the afternoon. Therefore “early in the morning” should be six o’clock in the morning. Spiritual Meaning: “a landowner” is God Himself. “ Early in the morning” There are several kinds of explanations about the earliness and lateness of hire: 1) God hired the prophets in the Old Testament first and then apostles in the New Testament; 2) God hired the Jews first and then the Gentiles; 3) it merely indicates the initial, early, medium and late period of the dispensation of grace; 4) according to one’s age to be saved, it indicates his teenage, young age, prime of life, middle-age and old age. “His vineyard” is a yard for grapes. In the Old Testament it usually symbolized that Israel is the realm where God reigned (See Is. 5:1, Jer. 12:10). And in the New Testament vine and branches symbolize Christ and those who are of Him (See John. 15). Therefore “vineyard” symbolizes the fullness of Christ which is the church (See Eph. 1:23), i.e. the reality of the kingdom of heaven; the church is the realm and object of God’s work in the universe. Enlightenment in the Word: 1) God’s work in the universe is to plant the true vine (John. 15:1-2), in another word, to make them have life of God and have it more abundantly (John. 10:10). 2) Not only the Holy Trinity work in person (See John. 5:17, 16:13) but also He calls men to work with Him (See Is. 6:8, 1Cor. 3:9).

Matt. 20:2 “Now when he had agreed with the laborers for a denarius a day, he sent them into his vineyard.” YLT: “and having agreed with the workmen for a denary a day, he sent them into his vineyard.” Literal Meaning: “a denarius a day” From this verse we could know the present wage and it is said that the wage of a Roman soldier is a denarius a day. Enlightenment in the Word: 1) Our labor is not in vain in the Lord (1Cor. 15:58). Anything that we give for the Lord will be remembered by the Lord and there will be reward in future. 2) “He sent them into his vineyard.” All our service and work must be in the church and everything that is out of the church cannot be counted as service or work.

Matt. 20:3 “And he went out about the third hour and saw others standing idle in the marketplace,” YLT: “`And having gone forth about the third hour, he saw others standing in the market-place idle,” Literal Meaning: “the third hour” is nine o’clock in the morning. “ Saw others standing idle in the marketplace.” “In the marketplace” is the place for the job-hunters usually to wait; “standing idle” means to have nothing to do. Spiritual Meaning: “the third hour” Considering the age, it means the initial period of the dispensation of grace. Considering the time when one is saved, it indicates his youth. “In the marketplace” means in the world. Enlightenment in the Word: 1) If the work we do “in the market” (the world) is besides Christ and not related to Christ, it is only “standing idle” in God’s sight no matter how busy we are. 2) If it is besides the will of God and is not for the increase of the measure of Christ (plant the vineyard), whatever we do is “standing idle” in the Lord’s sight and is barren and unfruitful (2Pet. 1:8)

Matt. 20:4 “and said to them, ‘You also go into the vineyard, and whatever is right I will give you.' So they went.” YLT: “and to these he said, Go ye also ye to the vineyard, and whatever may be righteous I will give you;” Enlightenment in the Word: “whatever is right I will give you” The word of the Lord is faithful and what the Lord has promised never fail (See 2Cor. 1:20)

Matt. 20:5 “Again he went out about the sixth and the ninth hour, and did likewise.” YLT: “and they went away. `Again, having gone forth about the sixth and the ninth hour, he did in like manner.” Literal Meaning: “about the sixth and the ninth hour,” “the six hour” means twelve o’clock at noon and “the ninth hour” means three o’clock in the afternoon. Spiritual Meaning: “the sixth hour” Concerning the dispensation, in indicates the medium term of the dispensation of grace. Concerning the time when one is saved, it means his prime of life. “The ninth hour” Concerning the dispensation, it means a bit later time of the dispensation of grace. Concerning the time when one is saved, it indicates his middle age. The Lord has called men to do His work from ages and from generations and those who answered the Lord’s calling in different years.

Matt. 20:6 “And about the eleventh hour he went out and found others standing idle, and said to them, ‘Why have you been standing here idle all day?'” YLT: “And about the eleventh hour, having gone forth, he found others standing idle, and saith to them, Why here have ye stood all the day idle?” Literal Meaning: “about the eleventh hour he went out.” “The eleventh hour” means five o’clock in the afternoon. Spiritual Meaning: “the eleventh hour” Concerning the dispensation, it means the last period of the dispensation of grace, i.e. the last time. Concerning the time when one is saved, it indicates his old age. Enlightenment in the Word: 1) Someone receives the grace to serve the Lord until his old age, though he has stood idle almost his whole life (all day), he still gets the chance to partake in the Lord’s work. 2) God has specially tolerated us, the believers in last time, so that we could have the chance to be saved before He comes back (See 2Pet. 3:9). Therefore we should work diligently for yet a little while, and He that shall come will come, and will not tarry (Heb. 10:37).

Matt. 20:7 “They said to him, ‘Because no one hired us.' He said to them, ‘You also go into the vineyard, and whatever is right you will receive.'” YLT: “they say to him, Because no one did hire us; he saith to them, Go ye ye also to the vineyard, and whatever may be righteous ye shall receive.” Enlightenment in the Word: The reason why we are called by God is not that we are wiser, more capable or stronger than others. It is fully the grace of God (See 1Cor. 1:26-29).

Matt. 20:8 “‘So when evening had come, the owner of the vineyard said to his steward, ‘Call the laborers and give them their wages, beginning with the last to the first.'” YLT: “`And evening having come, the lord of the vineyard saith to his steward, Call the workmen, and pay them the reward, having begun from the last unto the first.” The Background: in ancient time, the working environment was unusual and those who were hired temporarily were not assured to still have the working opportunity the next day. Therefore the wage is given after a day’s work. According to the regulations of the Old Testament, the wage is given on his day (See Lev. 19:13, Deut. 24:15). Literal Meaning: “when evening had come” means that it has past the time of working and it is about six o’clock in the evening. Spiritual Meaning: “evening” typifies the time when Christ comes back, i.e. the time of the kingdom of a thousand years; “the owner” is the landowner (v.1), i.e. Christ; “his steward” is angel; “give them their wages” means that when the Lord comes back, He shall reward each according to his service. “Beginning with the last to the first” shows that the reward in the kingdom is different from our natural and commercial concept.

Matt. 20:9 “And when those came who were hired about the eleventh hour, they each received a denarius.” YLT: “And they of about the eleventh hour having come, did receive each a denary.” Spiritual Meaning: the workers who were hired in the eleventh hour only worked one hour and still received the wage of a day. It shows that the reward in the kingdom is not on the basis of men’s work but the Lord’s grace.

Matt. 20:10 “But when the first came, they supposed that they would receive more; and they likewise received each a denarius.” YLT: “`And the first having come, did suppose that they shall receive more, and they received, they also, each a denary,” Literal Meaning: “they supposed that they would receive more” shows the attitude of the world: the more we pay, the more we may receive accordingly. The more we suffer, the more wages we may be given. Enlightenment in the Word: 1) “They supposed that they would receive more” shows the common fault of believers in service: A. The aim of service is not purely for the glory of God but for what one may receive. B. Anyone with the motive to gain for himself usually compares to others about what others have received and consequently he will feel discontented. 2) “They each received a denarius”: to those who were hired first, it is just; to those who were hired last, it is the unlimited grace. However if we know the spiritual value of “a denarius”, we will feel that the Lord’s reward greatly exceeds what we are worthy to receive and He has specially shown His grace above righteousness.

Matt. 20:11 “And when they had received it, they complained against the landowner,” YLT: “and having received [it], they were murmuring against the householder, saying,”

Matt. 20:12 “saying, ‘These last men have worked only one hour, and you made them equal to us who have borne the burden and the heat of the day.'” YLT: “that These, the last, wrought one hour, and thou didst make them equal to us, who were bearing the burden of the day and the heat.” Enlightenment in the Word: 1) “Who have borne the burden and the heat of the day” shows that they feel self-satisfied in service and this situation manifests the wrongness of their intentions (See Gen. 29:20, 31:40). If our intention of service is right, we shall make merry and rejoice because others have received the reward together. 2) God rewards us not according to our labor but His grace. If we serve the Lord relying on His grace, we won’t complain or feel discontented and contrarily we will thank and praise the Lord. 3) If the aim of our service is only for the “wage”, we will “complain”. If the aim of service is not purely for the full Christ but one’s own gain, one must be easily ensnared and so that he shall fell discontented in spirit.

Matt. 20:13 “But he answered one of them and said, ‘Friend, I am doing you no wrong. Did you not agree with me for a denarius?” YLT: “`And he answering said to one of them, Comrade, I do no unrighteousness to thee; for a denary didst not thou agree with me?” Meaning of Words: “friend”: fellow, comrade (friendly tone). Enlightenment in the Word: 1) We not only come short of the glory of God for we have sinned (Rom. 3:23) but also always do God “wrong” in service. 2) Though we always do the Lord wrong, the Lord never does us wrong. He won’t do us wrong concerning the reward in future because the Lord is righteous and justice is the foundation of His throne (Ps. 89:14). If He does us little wrong, it will sway His authority.

Matt. 20:14 “Take what is yours and go your way. I wish to give to this last man the same as to you.” YLT: “take that which is thine, and go; and I will to give to this, the last, also as to thee;” Enlightenment in the Word: the Lord is the one who works all things according to the counsel of his own will (Eph. 1:11) and He likes to fully show His grace.

Matt. 20:15 “Is it not lawful for me to do what I wish with my own things? Or is your eye evil because I am good?'” YLT: “is it not lawful to me to do what I will in mine own? is thine eye evil because I am good?” Meaning of Words: “evil”: the attention of the corrupted mind. The Background: “bountiful eye” and “evil eye” are proverbs with which the Jews were familiar (See Prov. 22:9, 23:6, 28:22). Literal Meaning: “is your eye evil?” “Evil eye” indicates that one is malicious because of jealousy. Enlightenment in the Word: 1) The Lord “is good” by His lordship and He shows mercy to men according to His own will. The Lord’s grace does not go against His righteousness and His grace exceeds His righteousness. 2) The Lord is righteous to those who think themselves righteous------“agree me”, “I am doing you no wrong” (v.13) and blameless. The Lord is full of grace to those who owe others------“I am good”. 3) I will show mercy to whom I will show mercy, and I will feel compassion for whom I will feel compassion (Rom. 9:15). 4) Our eye should not be “evil” to His grace just as we should not question His righteousness. 5) Men’s attitudes are wrong usually because their hearts have some problem and their hearts are evil.

Matt. 20:16 “So the last will be first, and the first last. For many are called, but few chosen.’” YLT: “So the last shall be first, and the first last, for many are called, and few chosen.’” Literal Meaning: “the last will be first,” “The last” were the workers who came last; “first” indicates to receive the reward first. “The first last” “The first” were the workers who came first; “last” indicates to receive the reward last. Enlightenment in the Word: 1) Those who serve last receive the reward first and those who serve first receive the reward last. Therefore receiving the reward is not according to men’s reasoning but the Lord’s will. 2) Those who ran well (Gal. 5:7) may not have a good end. Therefore we should be unremitting from the beginning to the end. 3) Receiving the reward of the kingdom is not according to the length and amount of service but the intention and attitude of service. 4) Those who partake in the service in the church will receive the same reward whether one is first or last. 5) Those who think that they have worked hard and performed a valuable service (“who have borne the burden and the heat of the day” v.12) in the service and they must receive more (“they supposed that they would receive more” v.10) shall be “last”. 6) The Lord appreciate those who serve Him with the hearts of thanksgiving more than those who think that they have worked hard and performed a valuable service.

Matt. 20:17 “Now Jesus, going up to Jerusalem, took the twelve disciples aside on the road and said to them,” YLT: “And Jesus going up to Jerusalem, took the twelve disciples by themselves in the way, and said to them,”

Matt. 20:18 “‘Behold, we are going up to Jerusalem, and the Son of Man will be betrayed to the chief priests and to the scribes; and they will condemn Him to death,” YLT: “`Lo, we go up to Jerusalem, and the Son of Man shall be delivered to the chief priests and scribes,” Literal Meaning: “they will condemn Him to death” This shows that the death of Jesus is not the murder in secret. He was condemned and sentenced to death through the open interrogations. The disciples thought that the Lord Jesus went up to Jerusalem so as to fulfill the prophecy of the kingdom of Messiah (Zech. 9, Acts. 1:6). They thought that the Lord would reign there and therefore they argued for status among them (v.20-24). However, the Lord said that He went up to Jerusalem for death. Unfortunately, the disciples had not heard His words.

Matt. 20:19 “and deliver Him to the Gentiles to mock and to scourge and to crucify. And the third day He will rise again.’” YLT: “and they shall condemn him to death, and shall deliver him to the nations to mock, and to scourge, and to crucify, and the third day he will rise again.’” The Background: “to crucify” The crucifixion was not the usual cruel torture used by the Jews. It was used to deal with felons (e.g. robber, murderer, traitor and etc.) by the Roman Empire. They crucified the executed one on the cross, with wrought iron spike through wrist and anklebone and made him die from exhaustion. Literal Meaning: “and deliver Him to the Gentiles” “The Gentiles” are the Romans. Jesus was condemned to death by Pontius Pilate, the Roman governor and then was crucified (See Matt. 27:20-26). “ To mock and to scourge” Before being crucified, Jesus was scourged by Pontius Pilate, the Roman governor and He was mocked and scourged by Roman soldiers (See Matt. 27:26-31). Spiritual Meaning: “the chief priests and the scribes” in v.18 represent the Jews, indicating men or believers in religious circles; “the Gentiles” in this verse indicate men in political circles or the world. They both would become our suffering and cross. Enlightenment in the Word: 1) The Lord guided the disciples all the way and often mentioned the cross to them (See Matt. 16:21, 17:23), showing that the Lord’s way was pointing to the cross all the time. 2) If we could surpass the suffering of the cross and see the glory in the resurrection, we will joyfully run the way that is set before us fearlessly. 3) There must be suffering before glory (Rom. 8:17); the death before resurrection (1Cor. 15:36). The cross is the way for one to be highly exalted (Pill. 2:8-9). This is the model left by the Lord Jesus for us. 4) The more sufferings one suffers, the more consolations of the Lord he will receive (2Cor. 1:5). The more one is delivered to death, the more the Lord’s life of resurrection will be manifested in him (2Cor. 4:11).

Matt. 20:20 “Then the mother of Zebedee's sons came to Him with her sons, kneeling down and asking something from Him.” YLT: “Then came near to him the mother of the sons of Zebedee, with her sons, bowing and asking something from him,” Literal Meaning: “the mother of Zebedee’s sons came to Him with her sons,” “Zebedee’s sons” are James and John (See Matt. 10:2). It is said that their mother was the aunt of Jesus according to the flesh (See John. 19:25, Mark. 15:40, Matt. 27:56).

Matt. 20:21 “And He said to her, ‘What do you wish?’ She said to Him, ‘Grant that these two sons of mine may sit, one on Your right hand and the other on the left, in Your kingdom.’” YLT: “and he said to her, `What wilt thou?’ She saith to him, `Say, that they may sit these my two sons one on thy right hand, and one on the left, in thy reign.’” Meaning of Words: “grant”: tell, say. Literal Meaning: she asked the Lord for her two sons to sit on the right and left hand of the Lord which are the status second only to the Lord in the kingdom. It shows that all those who followed the Lord at that time held that He went up to Jerusalem in order to drive away the Romans, establish the kingdom of Messiah and reign in glory.

Matt. 20:22 “But Jesus answered and said, ‘You do not know what you ask. Are you able to drink the cup that I am about to drink, and be baptized with the baptism that I am baptized with?’ They said to Him, ‘We are able.’” YLT: “And Jesus answering said, `Ye have not known what ye ask for yourselves; are ye able to drink of the cup that I am about to drink? and with the baptism that I am baptized with, to be baptized?` They say to him, `We are able.’” Literal Meaning: “the cup that I am about to drink” “Cup” is the inheritance measured by God for us (See Ps. 16:5-6). God sent Jesus into the world to take away the sin of the world and bear the punishments that we are supposed to take (See Is. 53:4-6). Therefore the cup that He was about to drink was the cup of fury of God (See Matt. 26:39, Is. 51:17), i.e. the sufferings of the cross. “They said to Him, ‘we are able’” They said so because they did not know themselves (See Matt. 26:31, 56). Enlightenment in the Word: 1) Many times, we do not know what we really ask in prayers. 2) If we ask “something” from Him concerning the status, the Lord will reprove us that, “you do not know what you ask”. 3) The problem that the Lord asked then shows that the status in the kingdom is related to drinking the cup of the Lord. The Lord’s cup that He was about to drink was to obey the will of God the Father (See Matt. 26:39, 42) and experience the suffering of the cross.

Matt. 20:23 “So He said to them, ‘You will indeed drink My cup, and be baptized with the baptism that I am baptized with; but to sit on My right hand and on My left is not Mine to give, but it is for those for whom it is prepared by My Father.’” YLT: “And he saith to them, `Of my cup indeed ye shall drink, and with the baptism that I am baptized with ye shall be baptized; but to sit on my right hand and on my left is not mine to give, but to those for whom it hath been prepared by my father.’” Literal Meaning: “you will indeed drink My cup” They really suffered for the sake of the Lord (See Acts. 12:1, Rev. 1:9). “But it is for those for whom it is prepared by My Father.” The Lord, on the status of the Son of Man here, respected the sovereignty of God the Father and put all in the hand of the Father without His own favor and inclination. Enlightenment in the Word: 1) The Lord said that we should drink the cup and the status is given by the Father, showing that: a) The Lord only sought the will of the Father------He was willing to drink the cup of the cross and disregard of His own gain or loss. b) The Lord respected the sovereignty of the Father absolutely and put all in the hand of the Father. c) We should know the principle of grace that the status is not the exchange of the cup but the reward of God. 2) Through many tribulations, we must enter into the kingdom of God (Acts. 14:22).

Matt. 20:24 “And when the ten heard it, they were greatly displeased with the two brothers.” YLT: “And the ten having heard, were much displeased with the two brothers,” Literal Meaning: this proved that the twelve disciples, without exception, strived with each other that who should be held to be the greatest (Luke. 22:24). No one of them was willing to make concessions to the others and they were jealousy and angry with each other. Enlightenment in the Word: if we live in the flesh, we may provoke and envy one another (See Gal. 5:19-21, 26).

Matt. 20:25 “But Jesus called them to Himself and said, ‘You know that the rulers of the Gentiles lord it over them, and those who are great exercise authority over them.” YLT: “and Jesus having called them near, said, ‘Ye have known that the rulers of the nations do exercise lordship over them, and those great do exercise authority over them,” Enlightenment in the Word: 1) The spirit of the world likes to be the greatest, exercise authority over others and dominate others. 2) In the earthly kingdom, all the status is to rule others.

Matt. 20:26 “Yet it shall not be so among you; but whoever desires to become great among you, let him be your servant.” YLT: “but not so shall it be among you, but whoever may will among you to become great, let him be your ministrant;” Meaning of Words: “servant”: deacon, minister. Literal Meaning: “become great” indicates to be greater than common people. “Servant” indicates the worker who serves others. Enlightenment in the Word: 1) “Yet it shall not be so among you” The world clings to high status so as to exercise authority over others. This spirit should never be allowed to be infiltrated into the church. 2) In the heavenly kingdom, all status is to serve, look after, edify and shepherd others (1Pet. 5:1-3, Acts. 20:28, Eph. 4:11). 3) Seriously, in the kingdom (church), there is no difference in status, but there are differences in gifts, administrations and operations (Rom. 12:4, 1Cor. 12:4-6). 4) In the kingdom, the greater one is, the less freedom he has. On the other side, the more one humbles oneself and suffers, the less the will of freedom he has and the greater he will be manifested. 5) “Servant” is the same with “minister” in the original------the minister in the church is service-oriented.

Matt. 20:27 “And whoever desires to be first among you, let him be your slave--” YLT: “and whoever may will among you to be first, let him be your servant;” Literal Meaning: “be first”: foremost; “slave”: a bondman who has lost his decision-making power.

Matt. 20:28 “just as the Son of Man did not come to be served, but to serve, and to give His life a ransom for many.’” YLT: “even as the Son of Man did not come to be ministered to, but to minister, and to give his life a ransom for many.’” Literal Meaning: “a ransom for many” In the original, the word “a” here is used to stress on the nature of redemption of Christ’s death. “Many,” Christ gave Himself a ransom for all (1Tim. 2:6); the salvation is for “all” but only “few” (i.e. “believers”) have received. According to its usage in the original, “ransom” is the money used to redeem slaves. In like manner, Christ gave His life as a ransom and released us from the bondage of sin. Enlightenment in the Word: 1) “Just as the Son of Man did come” shows that the Lord was not gabbing: only demand others and do not demand Himself. The Lord set a good example with His conduct. Those who are spiritual leaders in the church have to match their words with deeds. 2) The Lord is originally the greatest, however, He did not come to be served, but to serve and even gave His life to others (Mark. 10:45, Pill. 2:8) so that many will be saved. 3) The Lord wanted us to learn from His example: do not mind status and serve men with whole heart. And our highest and greatest service is to let our “selves” be crucified. Matt. 20:29 “Now as they went out of Jericho, a great multitude followed Him.” YLT: “And they going forth from Jericho, there followed him a great multitude,” The Background: “now as they went out of Jericho” In the Gospel of Luke, it happened when Jesus came nigh unto Jericho (See Luke. 18:35). We mush know the background of the city of Jericho and then we will understand the reason of this discrepancy. There were a new Jericho and an old one at that time. The new was built by Herod the Great and there was a way connecting these two cities. In Matthew it recorded that Jesus went out of the old Jericho and in Luke it recorded that Jesus came nigh unto the new Jericho. Therefore there is no contradiction between these two records. “Jericho” was the land which has been cursed (See Josh. 6:26).

Matt. 20:30 “And behold, two blind men sitting by the road, when they heard that Jesus was passing by, cried out, saying, ‘Have mercy on us, O Lord, Son of David!’” YLT: “and lo, two blind men sitting by the way, having heard that Jesus doth pass by, cried, saying, `Deal kindly with us, sir Son of David.’” Literal Meaning: “two blind men sitting by the road” In the Gospels of Mark and Luke “a blind man” was recorded and in the Gospel of Mark his name “Bartimaeus” was mentioned (See Mark. 10:46, Luke. 18:35). Probably because the attitude of Bartimaes is more positive and he was mentioned in two Gospels. The Gospel of Matthew is to testify that Jesus is the Son of David, the Messiah and therefore “two” blind men were mentioned because “two” in the Bible means testimony. “The Son of David” is used by the Jews to call the Messiah. They hoped that the Messiah would come, save them and remove them from the suffering of the world (See Is. 9:7, Jer. 23:5-6). Spiritual Meaning: shortly after the disciples wanted to be the greatest, the book recorded the case that the Lord healed the two blind men. This description has its spiritual meaning. In other words, two blind men represent the disciples. Because the disciples were blind, they did not know the things of the kingdom of God and strived with each other that who should be held to be the greatest. Here the Lord healed them. “Blind” means that one, without enlightenment and revelation, does not know God and himself. “Sitting by the road”: the life does not grow and it is at a standstill. Enlightenment in the Word: 1) Following the Lord is the way for one to be blessed. However men are unable to follow the Lord because of blindness. They cannot choose but sit by the road. This is a picture of men’s state that they are poor in darkness. 2) Thank the Lord! He makes us hear the gospel and know that He is “Jesus” (it means “Jehovah the salvation” and “the salvation of Jehovah” in the original) and the Son of David (it means that He is the coming Messiah). Therefore we cry out to Him. 3) Though the blind men had not seen the Lord, they had “heard” Him and immediately they cried out to the Lord that their eyes may be opened (See v.33). When reading the Bible, we may not suddenly receive the enlightenment and understand the Lord’s words. We receive the revelation after we hear the Lord’s words first and cry out to the Lord for enlightenment.

Matt. 20:31 “Then the multitude warned them that they should be quiet; but they cried out all the more, saying, ‘Have mercy on us, O Lord, Son of David!’” YLT: “And the multitude charged them that they might be silent, and they cried out the more, saying, `Deal kindly with us sir Son of David.’” Enlightenment in the Word: 1) The prayer of seeking the sight usually may be forbidden by men. However the more one is forbidden, the more urgently he asks. In this way he will be blessed. 2) If one seeks revelation in prayer, one should seek urgently regardless of all the difficulties and blocks. In this way there will be a result.

Matt. 20:32 “So Jesus stood still and called them, and said, ‘What do you want Me to do for you?’” YLT: “And having stood, Jesus called them, and said, `What will ye [that] I may do to you?’” Enlightenment in the Word: 1) “What do you want Me to do for you?” There must be a clear aim in prayer. 2) Our prayers are usually common, aimless. We may ask amiss (James. 4:3) and we do not know what we ask (See v.22) and therefore our prayers cannot be answered. Matt. 20:33 “They said to Him, ‘Lord, that our eyes may be opened.’” YLT: “they say to him, `Sir, that our eyes may be opened;’” Enlightenment in the Word: it is the beginning of running the heavenly way to ask one’s eyes to be opened (2Cor. 4:6, Eph. 1:18, Acts. 26:18).

Matt. 20:34 “So Jesus had compassion and touched their eyes. And immediately their eyes received sight, and they followed Him.” YLT: “and having been moved with compassion, Jesus touched their eyes, and immediately their eyes received sight, and they followed him.” Enlightenment in the Word: 1) Originally the two blind men “sat by the road” (See v.30), their eyes were opened now and then followed the Lord on the way. If one wants to run the way, he has to receive sight first. 2) The true “touching” brings in the true “sight” and then the true “sight” brings in the true “following”. 3) Blind ones do not know the preciousness of the Lord and therefore they care about wage and status (See v.12, 21). However, if one’s eyes of heart are opened, he will regard the Lord as excellent, suffer the loss of all for Him (Pill. 3:8) and follow the Lord on the way of cross willingly.

The Relation among the King, the Kingdom and Service I. The relation between service and the reward of the kingdom of heaven: A. The Lord called men to work into the kingdom of heaven (v.1-7). B. When the Lord comes back, He will reward each (v.8-16). II. The relation between service and the status of the kingdom: A. The example of the king------He was delivered to mock, to scourge and to crucify and He will rise again (v.17-19). B. The disciples strived with each other that who should be held to be the greatest (v.20-24). C. The status of the kingdom is not to exercise authority but to serve (v.25-28). III. The true service in the kingdom lies in the opening of the eyes of hearts: A. The difficulties of service for men are due to blindness------evil eyes (v.15). B. Because of blindness the disciples also strived with each other that who should be held to be the greatest (v.20-24). C. One is able to follow the Lord on the way of cross until his eyes are opened (v.29-34).

The Example and Warning of the Lord’s Workers I. Three kinds of workers (v.1-16): A. Workers who work for wages------those who were hired “early in the morning”. B. Workers who are not particular about wages------those who were hired in “the third hour, the sixth and ninth hour”. C. Workers who work with thanksgiving------those who were hired in “the eleventh hour”. II. The example of workers: A. He was willing to take up the cross and provide the life of resurrection (v.17- 19). B. He did not come to be served, but to serve (v.28). III. The warning of workers: A. They sought the high status wholeheartedly and did not know themselves (v.20-23). B. They did not submit to others and wanted to be great and first instead of servants or slaves of others (v.24-27). IV. The training of workers (v.29-34): A. They confessed that they were blind and only the Lord was able to heal them. B. They still cried out unremittingly though they were confronted with blocks. C. They were healed by the Lord and received sight and then followed the Lord to the end.

The Vineyard------the Work of the Kingdom of Heaven I. The work of the kingdom of needs men’s cooperation------a landowner hired laborers (v.1-2). II. The work of the kingdom is so large that a large number of workers are needed------the landowner went out to hire laborers about the third, the six, the ninth and the eleventh hour (v.1-6). III. The work of the kingdom has its realm------into the vineyard (v.1, 4, 7). IV. There is righteous reward in the kingdom of heaven------they had agreed and the landowner did the workers no wrong (v.2, 13). V. There is unlimited grace in the kingdom of heaven------what I wish…I am good (v. 14-15). VI. The workers of the kingdom of heaven are like those who run in race- course------the last will be first, and the first last (v.16, See 1Cor. 9:24).

The Status in the Kingdom of Heaven I. Those who ask the status in the kingdom of heaven do not know what they ask (v.20-22a). II. Before receiving the status of the kingdom of heaven, one has to drink the “cup” (v.22b-23a). III. The status of the kingdom of heaven: it is for those for whom it is prepared by the Father (v.23b). IV. The status in the world is that those who are great exercises authority over those who are low; the status in the kingdom of heaven is not so (v.24-25a). V. The status of the kingdom of heaven is that whoever desires to be great or first, let him be servant and slave for all (v. 25b-27). VI. The status of the kingdom of heaven is not to be served by others but to serve others (v.28a). VII. The status of the kingdom of heaven is to “give his life” to serve men (v.28b).

Two Blind Men Received Sight I. The pity of blind men------they sat by the road (v.30). II. The gospel of blind men------they heard that Jesus was passing by (v.30). III. The reaction of blind men------they cried out, saying (v.30). IV. The persistence of blind men------they cried out all the more (v.31). V. The demand of blind men------our eyes may be opened (v.33). VI. The healing of blind men------Jesus…touched their eyes, immediately their eyes received sight (v.34). VII. The way of blind men------they followed Jesus (v.34).

The Reason Why Blind Men Received Mercy I. They seized the chance------when they heard that Jesus was passing by, they cried out, saying… (v.30). II. They disregarded the blocks------the multitude warned them that they should be quiet, but they cried all the more, saying… (v.31). III. They asked directly------they said to Him, “Lord, that our eyes may be opened” (v.33).

Matthew Chapter Twenty-one

The King Went into the City of Jerusalem I. He rode upon the colt into the city of Jerusalem (v.1-11). II. He cleansed the Holy Temple (v.12-17). III. He judged the fig tree (v.18-22). IV. He put the opposed to silence (v.23-27). V. The parable of two sons (v.28-32). VI. The parable of the wicked vinedressers (v.33-46).

Matt. 21:1 “Now when they drew near Jerusalem, and came to Bethphage, at the Mount of Olives, then Jesus sent two disciples,” YLT: “And when they came nigh to Jerusalem, and came to Bethphage, unto the mount of the Olives, then Jesus sent two disciples,” Meaning of Words: “Bethphage”: House of green (immature) figs. Literal Meaning: “came to Bethphage, at the Mount of Olives,” “Bethphage” was on the east of Jerusalem, on the south of the Mount of Olive and was close to Bethany (See v.17). Spiritual Meaning: “Bethphage” in original means the House of green figs. Figs symbolize the kingdom and the people of Israel (See Jer. 24:5). God hopes to gain a group of people on earth as figs have satisfied Him. Jerusalem was the capital of God’s elect. Normally, when the heavenly king came to Jerusalem, He should be welcomed and respected by all Jerusalem. However, according to the record in this chapter, when the Lord came to Jerusalem, though there were a group of the multitudes welcomed and held high this king, their welcome was very superficial. Moreover, the most serious thing was that He was rejected by the leaders of Judaism. These conditions were just like what the original meaning of “Bethphage” represents. The figs were still green------the Jews had not been prepared to welcome the heavenly king. Matt. 21:2 “saying to them, "Go into the village opposite you, and immediately you will find a donkey tied, and a colt with her. Loose them and bring them to Me.” YLT: “saying to them, `Go on to the village over-against you, and immediately ye shall find an ass bound, and a colt with her having loosed, bring ye to me;” The Background: “donkey” is a docile animal. Before the Jews used horses commonly, the donkeys were ridden by kings (See Judg. 10:4, 12:14, 2Sam. 16:2). Because donkeys were not as powerful as steeds, the Bible compared donkeys with steeds to show the lowliness and meekness of the one who rode upon the donkey (See Zech. 9:9-10). Literal Meaning: “you will find a donkey tied” The Gospels of Mark and Luke only mentioned the colt and did not mention the donkey (See Mark. 11:2, Luke. 19:30). Usually the mother donkey followed closely to its young colt and the feature of the Gospel of Matthew is to “testify” that Jesus is the Son of David, the Messiah and therefore the number “two” is mentioned frequently (See the note of Matt. 20:30). “And a colt with her” “colt” is the young and immature donkey. Spiritual Meaning: meanings of here the donkey and the colt are as follows: A. “Donkey” represents the Jews and “colt” represents the Gentiles. B. They were “tied” there, typifying that the world, without freedom, is tied by life, family and work. C. The place where they were tied is the village opposite, typifying that it is in the world. D. The Lord asked them to “loosen” them, typifying that the Lord sent His servants (believers) to deliver us from the world and sins. E. They were “brought to the Lord”, typifying that our being saved is that we are brought to the Lord. F. The aim that the Lord saves us is that “the Lord has need of them” (See v.3), typifying that the Lord hopes that after we have been saved, we could dedicate ourselves to Him for His need. Enlightenment in the Word: 1) The words of the Lord are with authority and only those who have the words of the Lord will be “loosened” and untied. 2) The one who has been untied has to be brought to the Lord (“bring them to me”) and then the Lord can use him. Matt. 21:3 “And if anyone says anything to you, you shall say, ‘The Lord has need of them,' and immediately he will send them.’” YLT: “and if any one may say anything to you, ye shall say, that the lord hath need of them, and immediately he will send them.’” Literal Meaning: “the Lord has need of them” “the Lord” is the Lord Jesus Himself. “And immediately he will send them.” “He” is the master of the donkey and the colt (See Luke. 19:33). “Immediately he will…” shows that the master was without the least hesitation, manifesting the Lord’s authority. Spiritual Meaning: believers were originally under the master of the world and were tied by things of the world and sins. However, one day, the mighty words of the Lord come to us, we are immediately delivered from the power of darkness and dedicate ourselves to the need of the Lord. Enlightenment in the Word: once the master of the donkey and the colt hears that the Lord has need of them, he answered it immediately; believers should gladly dedicate our body, intelligence, belongings and so on to the Lord immediately when the Lord has need of them.

Matt. 21:4 “All this was done that it might be fulfilled which was spoken by the prophet, saying:” YLT: “And all this came to pass, that it might be fulfilled that was spoken through the prophet, saying,” Literal Meaning: “which was spoken by the prophet” is the prophecy said by God through the prophet Zechariah (Zech. 9:9).

Matt. 21:5 “‘Tell the daughter of Zion, ‘Behold, your King is coming to you, Lowly, and sitting on a donkey, A colt, the foal of a donkey.’” YLT: “`Tell ye the daughter of Zion, Lo, thy king doth come to thee, meek, and mounted on an ass, and a colt, a foal of a beast of burden.’” Literal Meaning: “the daughter of Zion” The Bible usually uses the daughter of a city to represent the people of the city (See Ps. 45:12, song. 1:5). “Behold, your King is coming to you, Lowly.” This prophecy said that in the last week for the Lord Jesus as a man and when He went to Jerusalem to receive the cross, He showed Himself as the king to His earthly people who lived in the city of Jerusalem. Even so, He did not descend with majesty and splendor, however, He came lowly. This is the impression that He rode on a colt. Spiritual Meaning: the Lord’s riding on a donkey spiritually means that He would reign in the hearts of His people who obey Him and He did not force men to obey Him. If men do not have the intention to magnify the Lord, He will “give them up”.

Matt. 21:6 “So the disciples went and did as Jesus commanded them.” YLT: “And the disciples having gone and having done as Jesus commanded them,” Enlightenment in the Word: 1) Towards the Lord’s words, we should trust and obey His words without any doubt. 2) No matter what the Lord commands, as long as we obey it, it shall be even as it was told.

Matt. 21:7 “They brought the donkey and the colt, laid their clothes on them, and set Him on them.” YLT: “brought the ass and the colt, and did put on them their garments, and set [him] upon them;” Literal Meaning: “laid their clothes on them” Here they used clothes to replace the saddles. “And set Him on them.” According to the literal meaning, it seems that Jesus was riding on two donkeys (them). Actually, one man is unable to sit on two donkeys, He must ride on the colt (See Mark. 11:7) and because that colt had been sat by no men (See Mark. 11:2), its mother had to accompany it, aping it at every step. Spiritual Meaning: “clothes” symbolize our external glory and behaviors. The Lord sat on the cloths, showing that: 1) He was highly exalted and glorified; 2) men were able to personally experience His kingship through obedience; 3) we should walk for the manifestation of His glory. The disciples brought the donkey and the colt, however, when the Lord went into the city, He sat on the colt (See Mark. 11:7, Luke. 19:30-35). It symbolizes that the Lord is magnified in the Gentiles (the colt). Until the fullness of the Gentiles be come in, and so all Israel shall be saved (Rom. 11:25-26).

Matt. 21:8 “And a very great multitude spread their clothes on the road; others cut down branches from the trees and spread them on the road.” YLT: “and the very great multitude spread their own garments in the way, and others were cutting branches from the trees, and were strewing in the way,” Literal Meaning: “a very great multitude spread their clothes on the road” “a very great multitude” Probably because the Passover was coming, many people from various regions came to Jerusalem for the feast; “spread their clothes on the road” is the behavior to show allegiance and respect to the king (See 2Kings. 9:13). “ Others cut down branches from the trees and spread them on the road.” Spreading clothes on the road is the expression to welcome the king (See 2Kings. 9:13). Spiritual Meaning: the Lord sat on the colt and men spread clothes and branches of trees on the road. The meaning of this case is as follows: A. Human beings (clothes), animals (donkey) and plants (branches) are the representation of all, showing that the Lord might have the first place in all things (Col. 1:18) and all things are under His feet (Eph. 1:22). B. Clothes represent men’s outward behaviors of righteousness (Rev. 19:8) and branches are the branches of palms (See John. 12:13) and they represent men’s inward joy (See Lev. 23:40) and the overcoming life (See Rev. 7:9). “Spreading…on the road” shows to separate Him from the earthly things. The whole sentence shows that believers, in life and behavior, should show the difference between what is of earth and what is of the Lord. C. Believers magnify Christ by their beings and deeds, making the world know the being and deeds of Christ.

Matt. 21:9 “Then the multitudes who went before and those who followed cried out, saying: ‘Hosanna to the Son of David! ‘Blessed is He who comes in the name of the LORD!' Hosanna in the highest!’” YLT: “and the multitudes who were going before, and who were following, were crying, saying, `Hosanna to the Son of David, blessed is he who is coming in the name of the Lord; Hosanna in the highest.’” Literal Meaning: “Hosanna to the Son of David” “Hosanna” is “beseech for salvation immediately” (See Ps. 118:15). However, it can be used as praise and it means “you are mighty and only you are worthy”. “The Son of David” means that He is the Messiah who was sent by God to save the whole land (See Ps. 132:10- 11). The multitudes rejoiced and sang praise because they thought that Jesus was the savior of their race who came there to reign and lead the Jews to resist the domination of Roman Empire and establish the kingdom of the Messiah. “Blessed is He who comes in the name of the LORD” This song of praise was originally the blessing to the pilgrims (See Ps. 118:26). Here the multitudes mentioned this and the praise for the Messiah together and therefore “He who comes in the name of the LORD” is the coming Messiah, i.e. Jesus who appeared before them. “ Hosanna in the highest!” It means that: 1) because of the coming of the Messiah, they glorify God who is in the highest; 2) the angels and the hosts of heaven (See Ps. 148:1-2) sing “Hosanna” loudly in heaven. Enlightenment in the Word: 1) When the Lord sat on the colt (v.7), the multitudes spread clothes on the road (v.8) and then the multitudes praised Him. In like manner, when we fully obey the Lord, the Lord will be highly exalted above all and become the center of praise. 2) When the glorious Lord appears to us, we can’t help rejoicing and singing praise.

Matt. 21:10 “And when He had come into Jerusalem, all the city was moved, saying, ‘Who is this?’” YLT: “And he having entered into Jerusalem, all the city was moved, saying, ‘Who is this?’” Meaning of Words: “was moved”: quake (it is used to describe the earthquake), stir. Literal Meaning: “when He had come into Jerusalem” From this verse to chapter 27 in which it recorded that Jesus was crucified, it was His last week as a man and today men call it “the suffering week”. “All the city was moved.” Jesus moved all the Jerusalem at the time of His birth and today He moved all the city before His death.

Matt. 21:11 “So the multitudes said, ‘This is Jesus, the prophet from Nazareth of Galilee.’” YLT: “And the multitudes said, `This is Jesus the prophet, who [is] from Nazareth of Galilee.’” Literal Meaning: the multitudes here may be Galileans who came to the feast. They knew Him for a long time because the Lord preached and healed the sick in the north.

Matt. 21:12 “Then Jesus went into the temple of God and drove out all those who bought and sold in the temple, and overturned the tables of the money changers and the seats of those who sold doves.” YLT: “And Jesus entered into the temple of God, and did cast forth all those selling and buying in the temple, and the tables of the money-changers he overturned, and the seats of those selling the doves,” The Background: at that time the priests of the Holy Temple allowed traders to trade and sell oxen and sheep and doves and other sacrifices for sacrificing in the yard of the Gentiles of the Holy Temple. And because the Raman and Greek coins were not allowed to use in the Holy Temple, the Jews had to use Hebrew coins to pay the tax of the Holy Temple and to offer (See Exod. 30:13-15) and therefore the money exchangers existed for the convenience of pilgrims who came from far away. These commercial behaviors did not seem inappropriate, but actually, there were several serious abuses: 1) because the trader was done in the realm of the Holy Temple, the scared place was profaned by this; 2) it occupied the place of the Gentiles and they had been deprived of the rights of worship; 3) because the priests colluded with the traders. The priests gave the traders various kinds of convenience (e.g. the priests hadn’t examined the sacrifices and bent the rules to accommodate the sacrifice with blemish) and the traders exploited with high prices. Then they both shared the benefits. Literal Meaning: “He drove out all those who bought and sold in the temple.” “Temple” is “sacred place” in the original. It indicates the temple itself, its surroundings, and the whole area of the yards; “in the temple” indicates the yard of the Holy Temple which was open to the Gentiles. “The seats of those who sold doves” “doves” are used to sacrifice for the poor (See Lev. 12:8, 14:22, 15:14, 29). Spiritual Meaning: God’s temple is the place where God inhabits (Eph. 2:21- 22), however, there were a group of people who bought and sole in the temple and held gain to be piety (1Tim. 6:5); the behavior that the Lord Jesus cleansed the Holy Temple shows that God cannot have rest in this kind of temple. Enlightenment in the Word: 1) When we are willing to let the Lord reign in our hearts, all the dirtiness, adulteration and sins in our hearts will be cleansed by Him. 2) The Lord dislikes us to make money (exchange money) through any spiritual thing and quench the spirit (sell the doves) and so on.

Matt. 21:13 “And He said to them, ‘It is written, ‘My house shall be called a house of prayer,' but you have made it a ‘den of thieves.’” YLT: “and he saith to them, `It hath been written, My house a house of prayer shall be called, but ye did make it a den of robbers.’” Meaning of Words: “den of thieves”: the lair of robbers. Literal Meaning: this verse puts Is. 56:7 and Jer. 7:11 together. This was the second time for the Lord to cleanse the Holy Temple. When the Lord started to work, He once cleansed the temple (See John. 2:13-17). Here when the Lord almost finished His work, he did it again. The first time, He called the temple as “My Father’s house” (John. 2:16) because He cleansed the temple as the Son of God; here He called the temple “My house” because He is the Son of David------He cleansed the temple as the king. Enlightenment in the Word: 1) God saves us to be His “temple” (See Heb. 3:6, “the house of God” is “the temple of God” in the original) and His dwelling place. 2) “A house of prayer” is the place where men have communion and work with God and glorify God; “a den of thieves” is the place where men usurp the benefits of God and it is with a foul atmosphere and God has no peace and quiet there. 3) The church and our hearts should be the house of prayer, if Christ is not allowed to dwell there (See Eph. 3:17), they may become dens of thieves. 4) Personal prayer is very important, however, the prayer of the church is much more powerful than personal prayer. Therefore we should always pray with other believers.

Matt. 21:14 “Then the blind and the lame came to Him in the temple, and He healed them.” YLT: “And there came to him blind and lame men in the temple, and he healed them,” Literal Meaning: “the blind and the lame in the temple” These blind men and lame men should be at the gate of the temple or in the yard of it because they are not allowed to enter into the temple (See Lev. 21:16-24). Spiritual Meaning: “the blind and lame in the temple” It is a freehand brushwork, showing that temple which was impressive only in appearance was filled with those whose thoughts were blinded by the god of this world (2Cor. 4:4) and who were unable to walk. Only when we come to the Lord sincerely will we be healed. Enlightenment in the Word: 1) There are two troubles for believers to keep the will of God: a) “the blind”------they are unable to see the will of God clearly; b) “the lame”------they are unable to keep the will of God by themselves. 2) The moment the Lord came into the temple, these things happened: a) those who bought and sold were driven out; b) the disabled were healed; c) children praised the Lord (v.15). The moment the Lord comes into our hearts, these things will happen all the same: a) our sins are removed; b) our hearts are healed; c) we will praise Him wholeheartedly.

Matt. 21:15 “But when the chief priests and scribes saw the wonderful things that He did, and the children crying out in the temple and saying, ‘Hosanna to the Son of David!’ they were indignant” YLT: “and the chief priests and the scribes having seen the wonderful things that he did, and the children crying in the temple, and saying, `Hosanna to the Son of David, ‘were much displeased;” Literal Meaning: “and the children crying out in the temple and saying” In the temple men were not allowed to say loudly; please note that the priests and scribes were not indignant about crying of children but the content of their crying. Spiritual Meaning: “the priests and scribes” represent religious leaders. “Children” represent those who are spiritually young and purely seek the Lord. Once the latter ones see the work of the Lord, their hearts are easily welling forth good matters. However, the former ones become indignant and jealousy instead of praising because they are restrained by religious ceremonies and blinded by traditional concepts.

Matt. 21:16 “and said to Him, ‘Do You hear what these are saying?’ And Jesus said to them, ‘Yes. Have you never read, ‘Out of the mouth of babes and nursing infants You have perfected praise'?’” YLT: “and they said to him, ‘Hearest thou what these say?’ And Jesus saith to them, ‘Yes, did ye never read, that, Out of the mouth of babes and sucklings Thou didst prepare praise?’” Literal Meaning: “out of the mouth of babes and nursing infants You have perfected praise.” This verse is quoted from Ps. 18:2, however, the Hebrew word “power” here is translated as “praise”. Spiritual Meaning: the Lord quoted the word in Ps. 8:2, proving that He is the savior in incarnation who was predicted in Ps. 8 (See Heb. 2:6-10). Enlightenment in the Word: 1) They asked the Lord that He did not hear and the Lord asked them that they had never read. Reading the Bible (hearing the voice of God directly) is more important than hearing the word (hearing the voice of God indirectly). 2) Though babes and nursing infants are little and weak in men’s eyes, God values their praise out of their mouth. No matter how spiritual and excellent His words are, God cannot be satisfied without their praise. Therefore, in the church, we should encourage the new believers to open their mouth to pray and praise because these are very sweet upon God’s ears.

Matt. 21:17 “Then He left them and went out of the city to Bethany, and He lodged there.” YLT: “And having left them, he went forth out of the city to Bethany, and did lodge there,” Meaning of Words: “Bethany”: the house of figs, the house of tribulation. Literal Meaning: “He went out of the city of Bethany” “Bethany” is a small village, located at the southeast of the foot of the Olive Mount outside of the city of Jerusalem. There was the family of Martha, Mary and Lazarus (See John. 11:1-5, 18) and the family of Simon (See Matt. 26:6) in whose house Mary did a good work (See Matt. 26:10, John. 12:3) there. Spiritual Meaning: the city of Jerusalem typifies the Christian organization which has fallen and deteriorated and the so-called church. They have a name that they live, and are dead (Rev. 3:1). The Lord couldn’t have rest there and left them and went out of the city to find another place of rest. “Bethany” means “the house of figs”. Figs symbolize the fruits of life and life is the spiritual reality. Where there is the spiritual reality there the Lord will have a rest. It is no wonder that the Lord Jesus went out to Bethany and dwelled there every night during His last weak in the world (See Mark. 11:11, 19; Luke. 21:37). Enlightenment in the Word: 1) A normal church should be full of life (Lazarus), love (Mary) and service (Martha) and then it could make the Lord have a rest. 2) Christ only dwells in our hearts by our faith and love (See Eph. 3:17). Matt. 21:18 “Now in the morning, as He returned to the city, He was hungry.” YLT: “and in the morning turning back to the city, he hungered,” Literal Meaning: “as He returned to the city,” “returned to the city” indicates to return to Jerusalem from Bethany. Spiritual Meaning: “He was hungry” symbolizes that the Lord was unsatisfied.

Matt. 21:19 “And seeing a fig tree by the road, He came to it and found nothing on it but leaves, and said to it, ‘Let no fruit grow on you ever again.’ Immediately the fig tree withered away.” YLT: “and having seen a certain fig-tree on the way, he came to it, and found nothing in it except leaves only, and he saith to it, `No more from thee may fruit be to the age;’ and forthwith the fig-tree withered.” The Background: under normal circumstances, fig tree begins to bear fruits in February in normal solar calendar and then sprouts and has leaves. In April and May it is full of dense green leaves and under every leave there is a fruit. Most of the fruits grow up until June, however, some of the fruits are precocious. According to the time recorded in this chapter, it was near to the Passover (See Matt. 26:2) and was about between March and April in solar calendar. Therefore, as usual, that fig free should not have nothing but leaves. Literal Meaning: “seeing a fig tree by the road” Fig tree is the emblem of the kingdom of Israel (See Jer. 24:5, Hos. 9:10). The Jews were righteous in their own eyes, proud and considered themselves above all nations and despised others. Therefore, Israel was that fig tree by the road. “ Let no fruit grow on you ever again,” It predicted that Israel would be rejected. Someone says that, the signs that Jesus had done in His life all showed His love. Only this time He showed His anger and this time His anger was done in a tree instead of a man. Therefore, the Lord is merciful in His anger and He warned them with the type. The words of the Lord had been really fulfilled in history. In A. D. 70, the city of Jerusalem was destroyed and then Israel was carried to different parts of the world captive until the 20 century. In the coming of the end of this world, Israel restored just like that the branch of fig tree is tender and puts forth leaves (See Matt. 24:32) and there is still no fruits (few of the Jews are Christians today). Spiritual Meaning: God planted Israel just like a fig tree and He hoped for some fruits to satisfy His needs. When the Lord Jesus came among the Israel (returned to the city), He came with the need of God (hungry) and wanted to find fruits of life in them, unfortunately, they only had some outward appearance and ceremonies of worshiping God (“but leaves”). Enlightenment in the Word: 1) Today, among believers, probably there are many, just like Israel, who only have the form of piety and do not have the power of it (2Tim. 3:5) ------have nothing but leaves------this makes the Lord unsatisfied. 2) If believers do not bear fruits, they will be taken away, cast out and dried up (John. 15:2, 6). 3) The value of the existence of all is to satisfy and please the Lord of all, otherwise, there is no need for them to live.

Matt. 21:20 “And when the disciples saw it, they marveled, saying, ‘How did the fig tree wither away so soon?’” YLT: “And the disciples having seen, did wonder, saying, `How did the fig-tree forthwith wither?’”

Matt. 21:21 “So Jesus answered and said to them, ‘Assuredly, I say to you, if you have faith and do not doubt, you will not only do what was done to the fig tree, but also if you say to this mountain, ‘Be removed and be cast into the sea,' it will be done.” YLT: “And Jesus answering said to them, `Verily I say to you, If ye may have faith, and may not doubt, not only this of the fig-tree shall ye do, but even if to this mount ye may say, Be lifted up and be cast into the sea, it shall come to pass;” Spiritual Meaning: “this mount” indicates the obstacle and difficulties which block the way of believers and seem to be too large to be removed. “Be removed and be cast into the sea” Removing the mount and casting it into the sea indicate to overcome large and obstinate difficulties. The Lord Jesus said this dialogue of faith closely after He had cursed the fig tree and this includes deep spiritual meaning. It is a sign to remove the mount and cast it into the sea. It must be done by God instead of men. However, if we want to move God’s finger to remove the mount for us, we have to satisfy His needs first. Faith is the only thing by which we could satisfy God. The Jews wanted to satisfy God by the Law (leaves) and consequently they were rejected by God; we have access by faith into this grace wherein we stand (Rom. 5:2) and therefore faith is the “fruit” which satisfies God. Enlightenment in the Word: 1) Faith is able to move God’s finger. As long as we could move God’s finger, we shall not worry that we could not move the large mountain. 2) No matter how difficult the trouble is, as long as one has faith, he will overcome it. 3) Sometimes we need to speak to the difficulty directly and refuse and rebuke the difficulty by faith.

Matt. 21:22 “And whatever things you ask in prayer, believing, you will receive.’” YLT: “and all as much as ye may ask in the prayer, believing, ye shall receive.’” Spiritual Meaning: this verse shows that the sign of removing the mount and casting it into the sea is done by God; if men pray with faith, he will receive the answer of sign from God. If men satisfy God by “faith”, God will reward men and men will receive. Enlightenment in the Word: 1) Prayer is that men ask God. And the prayer with faith is the prerequisite for God’s answer. Men draw God’s promise through faith. 2) God will do great things if men trust Him without doubt. Prayer will not be fulfilled without faith. God does things according to our capacity and how much we have been prepared.

Matt. 21:23 “Now when He came into the temple, the chief priests and the elders of the people confronted Him as He was teaching, and said, ‘By what authority are You doing these things? And who gave You this authority?’” YLT: “And he having come to the temple, there came to him when teaching the chief priests and the elders of the people, saying, `By what authority dost thou do these things? and who gave thee this authority?’” Literal Meaning: “the chief priests and the elders of the people confronted Him.” “The chief priests”, “the elders” and “the scribes” (See v.15) constitute the three kinds of members of Judaic council. “By what authority are You doing these things?” “These things” indicate that Jesus taught men and cleansed the temple in the first day. Spiritual Meaning: the chief priests were leaders in Judaism and they represent characters in religious circles; “the elders of the people” were leader of common people and they represent worldly characters. These two kinds of men confronted the Lord that by what authority He taught men and cleansed the Holy Temple. This shows that they did not know the Lord or respect Him and contrarily withstood Him.

Matt. 21:24 “But Jesus answered and said to them, ‘I also will ask you one thing, which if you tell Me, I likewise will tell you by what authority I do these things:” YLT: “And Jesus answering said to them, `I will ask you I also one word, which if ye may tell me, I also will tell you by what authority I do these things;” Literal Meaning: to those who had hardened their hearts and did not know the Lord intentionally, the Lord did not answer their question directly and contrarily asked them a question in reply so as to put them to silence. Enlightenment in the Word: when men ask what they should not ask, believers should imitate the Lord and ask in reply so as to help us out of a predicament.

Matt. 21:25 “The baptism of John--where was it from? From heaven or from men?’ And they reasoned among themselves, saying, ‘If we say, ‘From heaven,' He will say to us, ‘Why then did you not believe him?'” YLT: “the baptism of John, whence was it? from heaven, or from men?’ And they were reasoning with themselves, saying, `If we should say, From heaven; he will say to us, Wherefore, then, did ye not believe him?” Literal Meaning: “the baptism of John—where was it from?” The Lord meant that the place the authority of John the Baptism was from is where His authority is from. If the opposed could answer the question where the authority of John the Baptist was from, they will naturally know where His authority was from. Jesus asked in reply because if they confessed that John the Baptist was sent by God, they should receive his testimony for Jesus (See Matt. 3:11-12). Therefore they would naturally know that His authority is from God. “ From heaven” indicates from God; the Jews usually replaced God with heaven. Spiritual Meaning: “the baptism of John” is to bury those who had repented (See Matt. 3:6-11), i.e. to put the old man into death. The Lord Jesus asked this question with the aim of making them confess that it is of God. He also implied that the true authority of God is from death and resurrection, otherwise, it is only authority of men. Matt. 21:26 “But if we say, ‘From men,' we fear the multitude, for all count John as a prophet.’” YLT: “and if we should say, From men, we fear the multitude, for all hold John as a prophet.’”

Matt. 21:27 “So they answered Jesus and said, ‘We do not know.’ And He said to them, ‘Neither will I tell you by what authority I do these things.” YLT: “And answering Jesus they said, `We have not known. ‘He said to them he also `Neither do I tell you by what authority I do these things.” Literal Meaning: the Lord did not say that “I do not know” but “neither will I tell you”. The chief priests and the elders of the people were fully aware of the answer and declined that they did not know. It was lying. The Lord knew it and He did not tell them. It was true. Enlightenment in the Word: 1) If our hearts are not upright, the Lord cannot speak to us. 2) Today men may prevaricate the Lord’s questions, however, in future we shall all stand before the judgment seat of Christ and each of us shall give account of himself to God (Rom. 14:10-12).

Matt. 21:28 “‘But what do you think? A man had two sons, and he came to the first and said, ‘Son, go, work today in my vineyard.’” YLT: “`And what think ye? A man had two children, and having come to the first, he said, Child, go, to-day be working in my vineyard.’” Spiritual Meaning: here “a man” indicates God the Father. He has two sons and one represents Israel and the other represents the church of the New Testament. Israel was originally the firstborn of God (Exod. 4:22). However, the birthright was transferred to the church because the unbelief of Israel (Heb. 12:23) and therefore here “the first” indicates the church. God has a farm of life (vineyard) in this universe. God Himself is the husbandman (John. 15:1) and He also called men to work with Him together (1Cor. 3:9).

Matt. 21:29 “He answered and said, "I will not,' but afterward he regretted it and went.” YLT: “And he answering said, `I will not,’ but at last, having repented, he went.” Spiritual Meaning: the first contradicted his father first and he was unwilling to go and then he regretted. He symbolizes that: a) all the “sinners”; b) specially the tax collectors and harlots and other sinners who followed the Lord at that time. The tax collectors and harlots and other sinners originally went against the will of God, committed sins and did evil. Then they repented, confessed their sins and obeyed God.

Matt. 21:30 “Then he came to the second and said likewise. And he answered and said, ‘I go, sir,' but he did not go.” YLT: “`And having come to the second, he said in the same manner, and he answering said, I [go], sir, and went not;” Spiritual Meaning: here the second indicates the priests, the scribes, the Pharisees and the elders of the people who specially opposed the Lord. They drew nigh unto God with their mouth, and honored God with their lips, but their hearts were far from God (See Matt. 15:8). The religious leasers of the Jews obeyed God apparently, but actually they did not receive the one whom God has sent.

Matt. 21:31 “Which of the two did the will of his father?’ They said to Him, ‘The first.’ Jesus said to them, ‘Assuredly, I say to you that tax collectors and harlots enter the kingdom of God before you.” YLT: “which of the two did the will of the father?’ They say to him, `The first.` Jesus saith to them, `Verily I say to you, that the tax-gatherers and the harlots do go before you into the reign of God,” Literal Meaning: the Pharisees were like the last who pretended to be obedient but actually were disobedient. Tax collectors were like the first who went against the Father first and then regretted. “Enter the kingdom of God before you.” From this we could see that the Jews have not been removed from the kingdom of God completely because until the time all Israel shall be saved (See Rom. 11:25-26). Enlightenment in the Word: 1) The Lord values the true repentance of men and dislikes those who do not really mean what they have said. 2) The kingdom of God is not the outer words but the inner reality.

Matt. 21:32 “For John came to you in the way of righteousness, and you did not believe him; but tax collectors and harlots believed him; and when you saw it, you did not afterward relent and believe him.” YLT: “for John came unto you in the way of righteousness, and ye did not believe him, and the tax-gatherers and the harlots did believe him, and ye, having seen, repented not at last to believe him.” Literal Meaning: “John came to you in the way of righteousness,” “The way of righteousness” is the way that accords with the working principle of God. “You” in this verse indicate the Pharisees, the scribes and so on. They first heard the righteous preaching of John the Baptist and did not believe him. Then they saw the wonderful changes of sinners who had repented and still remained unmoved. The Lord condemned them because the hardness of their hearts. The words of the Lord in this verse actually answered the question asked by Himself in v.25. Spiritual Meaning: John the Baptist was the forerunner of the Lord Jesus and his work was to introduce the Lord to men, lead them to repent and prepare the way of the Lord in men’s hearts (See Matt. 3:1-12). Therefore believing him is to receive that the Lord Jesus is the only way of righteousness (John. 14:6, Heb. 10:20). The way of righteousness is that men come to God with faith and are willing to repent, confess their sins and believe in the Lord, then they could live in the kingdom of God.

Matt. 21:33 “‘Hear another parable: There was a certain landowner who planted a vineyard and set a hedge around it, dug a winepress in it and built a tower. And he leased it to vinedressers and went into a far country.” YLT: “`Hear ye another simile: There was a certain man, a householder, who planted a vineyard, and did put a hedge round it, and digged in it a wine-press, and built a tower, and gave it out to husbandmen, and went abroad.” Literal Meaning: “set a hedge around it” is to protect the vineyard from attack and breaking of wild beasts and robbers as well as the invasion of others (See Job. 1:10). “Dug a winepress in it” indicates to saw a place to press and keep wine by firm rock. “A winepress” has two layers, the upper is to step and press grapes and there is a small hole in the upper for the flow of the juice of grapes which has been pressed to the lower. “Built a tower” indicates to set up a watchtower by wood to guard in the time when grapes are mature. Spiritual Meaning: “the landowner” indicates God; “vineyard” indicates the kingdom of Israel (Is. 5:7); “hedge” indicates that God protects Israel all the time; “winepress” Wine is to refresh the heart of God (Song. 5:1) and it indicates that God plants Israel to satisfy Himself; “leased” shows that the lordship still belongs to God; “vinedressers” indicate the chief priests and the Pharisees (See v.45); “went into a far country” shows God’s generosity: He gives men certain freedom to operate and manage His treasure. Enlightenment in the Word: 1) The vineyard was “leased” to vinedressers and its lordship still belonged to the landowner. The Lord has put His church to His servants for stewardship and the lordship of the church is still in the Lord’s hands. 2) Service is our duty, however, we should not trespass the Lord’s lordship in service and we should obey the Lord’s guidance in everything.

Matt. 21:34 “Now when vintage-time drew near, he sent his servants to the vinedressers, that they might receive its fruit.” YLT: “`And when the season of the fruits came nigh, he sent his servants unto the husbandmen, to receive the fruits of it,” Spiritual Meaning: “he sent his servants” “His servants” indicate the prophets in the time of the Old Testament. “They might receive its fruit” shows that we should give account to God with service. “When vintage-time drew near” shows that we should give account to God on time. Enlightenment in the Word: 1) God has entrusted (leased) His spiritual inheritance to us and asks us to bring forth fruits in our seasons. And we should dedicate the fruits to God and should not keep them for our own. 2) What God hopes in us to render to Him fruits ------we should live Him out manifest Christ.

Matt. 21:35 “And the vinedressers took his servants, beat one, killed one, and stoned another.” YLT: “and the husbandmen having taken his servants, one they scourged, and one they killed, and one they stoned.” The Background: “stoned another” The Jews usually stone false prophets (See Deut. 13:5, 18:20, Lev. 20:2). Spiritual Meaning: God sent His prophets (servants) from ages and from generations to the people of Israel to speak for God and guide them to glorify God. On the contrary, they had been persecuted and killed.

Matt. 21:36 “Again he sent other servants, more than the first, and they did likewise to them.” YLT: “`Again he sent other servants more than the first, and they did to them in the same manner.” Spiritual Meaning: these other servants were the Lord’s twelve apostles and the seventy men who were sent by the Lord.

Matt. 21:37 “Then last of all he sent his son to them, saying, ‘They will respect my son.’” YLT: “`And at last he sent unto them his son, saying, They will reverence my son;” Meaning of Words: “respect”: turn to, hear, honor. Spiritual Meaning: it means that God sent His only begotten son Jesus Christ to come to the Jews.

Matt. 21:38 “But when the vinedressers saw the son, they said among themselves, ‘This is the heir. Come, let us kill him and seize his inheritance.'” YLT: “and the husbandmen having seen the son, said among themselves, This is the heir, come, we may kill him, and may possess his inheritance;” Spiritual Meaning: when these leaders of the Judaism (vinedressers) saw Jesus Christ, they became jealousy and indignant (See v.15) and sought to kill Him (Luke. 19:47).

Matt. 21:39 “So they took him and cast him out of the vineyard and killed him.” YLT: “and having taken him, they cast [him] out of the vineyard, and killed him;” Spiritual Meaning: “cast him out of the vineyard and kill him” “Out of the vineyard” typifies the outside of the city of Jerusalem; Jesus was crucified outside of the city of Jerusalem (See John. 19:17, Heb. 13:12). Enlightenment in the Word: The most important thing in the church is our attitude towards Christ: do we respect Him (v.37)? Or do we cast Him out and not seek Him? Matt. 21:40 “‘Therefore, when the owner of the vineyard comes, what will he do to those vinedressers?’” YLT: “whenever therefore the lord of the vineyard may come, what will he do to these husbandmen?’”

Matt. 21:41 “They said to Him, ‘He will destroy those wicked men miserably, and lease his vineyard to other vinedressers who will render to him the fruits in their seasons.’” YLT: “They say to him, `Evil men he will evilly destroy them, and the vineyard will give out to other husbandmen, who will give back to him the fruits in their seasons.’” Spiritual Meaning: “and lease his vineyard to other vinedressers who will render to him the fruits in their seasons.” These other vinedressers should not be another race and they should be God’s new people------the Lord’s church. God punished the obstinate and disobedient Judaic leaders and people. It was partially fulfilled in A.D. 70, the Raman prince Titus led soldiers to ruin the city of Jerusalem. And it will be fulfilled in the Great Tribulation in future (Rev. 11:2). Enlightenment in the Word: 1) Now God has passed on His spiritual inheritance to believers and we should never recommit the same error: a) Seize the fruits of service and usurp God’s lordship; b) Persecute and kill God’s servants; c) Dishonor God’s son. 2) Anyone who usurps God’s lordship, persecutes God’s servants and dishonors the Lord will be laid aside (“destroyed”) from the will of God and lose what God has entrusted (“lease” to other vinedressers).

Matt. 21:42 “Jesus said to them, ‘Have you never read in the Scriptures: ‘The stone which the builders rejected Has become the chief cornerstone. This was the LORD's doing, And it is marvelous in our eyes'?” YLT: “Jesus saith to them, `Did ye never read in the Writings, A stone that the builders disallowed, it became head of a corner; from the Lord hath this come to pass, and it is wonderful in our eyes.” Spiritual Meaning: “builders” indicate the chief priests, the scribes and the Pharisees; “the stone” indicates the Lord Jesus. The Lord was rejected by the leaders of Judaism and was crucified on the cross. But God made Him be raised and become “the head of the corner” (See Ps. 118:22, Acts. 4:11), which, in the building of church (house), is the most fundamental and important cornerstone in whom all the building fitly framed together (Is. 28:16, Eph. 2:20-21, 1Pet. 2:4-7).

Matt. 21:43 “‘Therefore I say to you, the kingdom of God will be taken from you and given to a nation bearing the fruits of it.” YLT: “`Because of this I say to you, that the reign of God shall be taken from you, and given to a nation bringing forth its fruit;” Meaning of Words: “nation”: state, country. Spiritual Meaning: “you” indicates Judaism; “a nation bearing the fruits of it” indicates the Gentile church. Because the leaders of Judaism rejected the Lord Jesus, the reality of God’s kingdom has been transferred to the Gentile church and what had been left to Judaism was only the appearance and empty housing of God’s kingdom.

Matt. 21:44 “And whoever falls on this stone will be broken; but on whomever it falls, it will grind him to powder.’” YLT: “and he who is falling on this stone shall be broken, and on whomsoever it may fall it will crush him to pieces.’” Meaning of Words: “grind”: to winnow, to pulverize, to triturate. Spiritual Meaning: to the Jews who do not believe in the Lord, the Lord is the stumbling block (See Is. 8:14-15, Rom. 9:32-33, 1Cor. 1:23, 1Pet. 2:8). When the Lord comes back, the Lord is the stone which breaks them to pieces to nations who do not believe in the Lord, (See Dan. 2:34-35, 44-45). Another meaning of this verse: the first sentence indicates believers. Their old creation is broken on the stone the Lord. They were born from above and become the new creation. The last one indicates unbelievers and they will be ruined by Him the stone in the Day of Judgment finally.

Matt. 21:45 “Now when the chief priests and Pharisees heard His parables, they perceived that He was speaking of them.” YLT: “And the chief priests and the Pharisees having heard his similes, knew that of them he speaketh,” Literal Meaning: “heard His parables” “Parables” indicate the above- mentioned two parables.

Matt. 21:46 “But when they sought to lay hands on Him, they feared the multitudes, because they took Him for a prophet.” YLT: “and seeking to lay hold on him, they feared the multitudes, seeing they were holding him as a prophet.” Enlightenment in the Word: Though religious believers were fully aware that the Lord’s words were specially said to them, they did not want to repent at all and on the contrary they sought to kill Him. It shows that the understanding of mind and knowledge is totally different from the sight of inner hearts. Every time we read the Bible, we should read it with right attitude and then we can profit from the Lord’s words.

The Comparison of God’s Two Kinds of People I. The first comparison------whether they respected the authority of the king: A. One group of people magnified the Lord (v.1-11). B. However, the other group confronted His authority (v.23-27). II. The second comparison------whether they afforded the dwelling place for the king: A. One group of people had the appearance of temple instead of the reality of it (v.12-16). B. However, the other gave the Lord a dwelling place of rest (v.17). III. The third comparison------whether they made the king have enjoyment: A. One group of people only had the appearance of trees instead of fruits (v.18-19). B. However, the other group satisfied God by faith (v.20-22). IV. Seeing the comparison of two groups of people from the Lord’s parables: A. The parable of two sons------the problem of the accordance of one’s words and deeds (v.28-32). B. The parable of the vinedressers------the problem of rendering fruits in their seasons (v.33-46). C. The parable of the wedding feast------the attitude of being called (Matt. 22:1- 14).

The Descriptions of the King of the Kingdom of Heaven I. The glory of the king: A. Jesus went into the city of Jerusalem, riding upon the colt (v.1-7). B. Some people laid their clothes on the donkey and colt (v.7). C. Some people spread their clothes and branches of trees on the road (v.8). D. The multitudes cried out, saying “Hosanna!” (v.9). E. All the city of Jerusalem was moved (v.10-11). II. The work of the king: A. He cleansed the Holy Temple (v.12-13). B. He healed the blind and the lame (v.14). C. He made the children in the Holy Temple cry out, saying “Hosanna” (v.15- 17). III. The authority of the king: A. He cursed the fig tree which did not bear fruits (v.18-20). B. If one prays with faith, he is able to use this authority (v.21-22). IV. The wisdom of the king: A. Religious believers confronted Jesus that by what authority He did these things (v.23). B. Jesus asked in reply and put them to silence (v.24-27). V. The order of the king: A. The first answered that he would not go, however, he regretted it and went (v.28-29). B. The last answered that he would go, however, he did not go (v.30-32). VI. The salvation of the king: A. The vinedressers who did not render fruits killed the servants and son of the owner of the vineyard (v.33-39). B. The owner of the vineyard destroyed the wicked vinedressers miserably and leased the vineyard to others who will render to him the fruits (v.40-46).

The Lord values Spiritual Reality I. The temple is the reality of the city: A. The city of Jerusalem had warm welcome in appearance towards the Lord (v.7-10). B. However, the temple of God became the den of thieves (v.12-13). II. Fruits are the reality of tree: A. There were only leaves on the fig tree (v.19). B. However, the fruits cannot be found on it and it cannot satisfy the Lord’s hunger (v.18-20). III. Action is the reality of promise: A. The first did not promise orally but he did it later (v.28-29). B. The last did promise orally but he did not do it (v.30). IV. Rendering fruit is the reality of leasing the vineyard: A. The wicked vinedressers did not render fruits and contrarily killed the son of the owner of the vineyard (v.34-39). B. The owner of the vineyard leased his vineyard to other vinedressers who will render to him the fruits (v.40-41).

The Lord Is the Stone I. To the leaders of Judaism------the stone which the builders rejected (v.42a) ------the Lord was rejected by them. II. To believers------the chief cornerstone (v.42b) ------the Lord is the basis to build the church. III. To unbelievers------whoever falls on this stone will be broken (v.44a) ------the Lord is the stumbling block (See Is. 8:14-15, Rom. 9:32-33, 1Cor. 1:23, 1Pet. 2:8). IV. To the reins of government of nations------on whoever it falls, it will grind him to powder (v.44b) ------the Lord is the stone who breaks men (See Dan. 2:34-35, 44-45).

Matthew Chapter Twenty-two

The Parable of a Certain King Who Arranged a Marriage for His Son I. Those who had been called rejected to come to the wedding (v.1-6). II. The king called others to come to the wedding (v.7-10). III. The one who did not have on a wedding garment was cast out into outer darkness by the king (v.11-14).

The Question behind Questions I. The Pharisees and the Herodians asked the Lord whether it was lawful to pay taxes to Caesar (v.15-22). II. The Sadducees asked the Lord whose wife would the woman who get married again be in the resurrection (v.23-33). III. The layer asked the Lord which was the great commandment in the Law (v.34-40). IV. The Lord asked the Pharisees that what did they think about the Christ (v.41- 46).

Matt. 22:1 “And Jesus answered and spoke to them again by parables and said:” YLT: “And Jesus answering, again spake to them in similes, saying,” Literal Meaning: “again” shows that this parable followed the “parable of the wicked vinedressers” in former chapter and these two have the same nature. Spiritual Meaning: The parable of leasing the vineyard and the parable of a marriage all typified that the Jews rejected the Lord and therefore God also rejected them and gave His grace to the Gentiles. Enlightenment in the Word: the parable of leasing the vineyard shows that we should present the fruits of work and the parable of a marriage shows that we should enjoy what God has prepared. Those who dedicate the fruits of work to God are those who enjoy what God has prepared. Truly enjoying what God has prepared is the true service to God.

Matt. 22:2 “‘The kingdom of heaven is like a certain king who arranged a marriage for his son,” YLT: “`The reign of the heavens was likened to a man, a king, who made marriage-feasts for his son,” The Background: “arranged a marriage for his son” According to the ancient custom of the Middle East, the wedding feast was held in the house of bridegroom and the parents of the bridegroom are responsible for the wedding itself. Spiritual Meaning: “a certain king” indicates God the Father; “his son” indicates God’s beloved son the Lord Jesus Christ; “a marriage” shows that in the dispensation of the New Testament, God will marry the church to Christ as His bride (See Eph. 5:22-32); “a marriage” symbolizes that God and men rejoice together (See Matt. 8:11; Rev. 19: 7-9). To men, this is an enjoyment of grace. Enlightenment in the Word: 1) God is greatly willing to make His son and us be one (“a marriage”) and let us enjoy His abundant preparation (“arranged a marriage”). 2) The more deeply one is united to Christ, the more he may enjoy the fullness of Christ. 3) Believers should also realize the mind of God and make the glad tidings multiply so that more people could receive the joy of salvation.

Matt. 22:3 “and sent out his servants to call those who were invited to the wedding; and they were not willing to come.” YLT: “and he sent forth his servants to call those having been called to the marriage-feasts, and they were not willing to come.” Literal Meaning: the king invited guests and therefore the word “call” is used here. Spiritual Meaning: in the dispensation of the New Testament, God originally invited the Jews; “the servants” here indicate the first group of servants who were sent by God in the dispensation of the New Testament, i.e. the disciples of the Lord and John the Baptist. Unfortunately, Israel was unwilling to receive the calling of grace because of their obstinacy. Enlightenment in the Word: whether one partakes in the wedding depends on whether he who is invited is “willing” to come; we should ask the Lord to give us a “willing” heart because it is the prerequisite to enjoy spiritual abundance.

Matt. 22:4 “Again, he sent out other servants, saying, ‘Tell those who are invited, ‘See, I have prepared my dinner; my oxen and fatted cattle are killed, and all things are ready. Come to the wedding.’” YLT: “`Again he sent forth other servants, saying, Say to those who have been called: Lo, my dinner I prepared, my oxen and the fatlings have been killed, and all things [are] ready, come ye to the marriage-feasts;” Spiritual Meaning: “he sent out other servants” This indicates what had happened in Pentecost (See Acts. 1:8; 2: 1, 12); “other servants” indicate the second group of servants who were sent by God in the dispensation of the New Testament, i.e. apostles including Paul the Apostle and believers. “My oxen and fatted cattle are killed” It symbolizes that Jesus Christ is the Lamb of God (See John. 1:29, 36) who was crucified for the sins of the world and became our enjoyment of grace. “ All things are ready” indicate all spiritual blessings with which God has blessed us in heavenly places in Christ (See Eph. 1:3). Enlightenment in the Word: 1) “Are killed” and “are ready” indicate that God has done what He should do on His part and He waits for our reactions on men’s part; God’s salvation is two- sided and both parts are indispensable. 2) Men have to receive with the hand of “faith” (See John. 3:16) what God has prepared with the hand of “love”; only when the two hands are joined together will the salvation of God be made perfect.

Matt. 22:5 “But they made light of it and went their ways, one to his own farm, another to his business.” YLT: “and they, having disregarded [it], went away, the one to his own field, and the other to his merchandise;” Literal Meaning: “one to his own farm” It is doing farming; “another to his business” It is doing business. Spiritual Meaning: the two kinds of people in this verse indicate the common Jewish people and they stress on the need and enjoyment of their flesh and soul more than their spiritual life and states before God. Enlightenment in the Word: earthly materials (“his own farm”) and wealth (“his business”) always become the greatest obstacle for men to seek heavenly things.

Matt. 22:6 “And the rest seized his servants, treated them spitefully, and killed them.” YLT: “and the rest, having laid hold on his servants, did insult and slay [them].” Spiritual Meaning: “the rest” indicate those who opposed the glad tidings of the Lord actively. Most of them were fervent in the traditions of Judaism and therefore they persecuted and killed the servants of the Lord (See Acts. 7:57- 8:3).

Matt. 22:7 “But when the king heard about it, he was furious. And he sent out his armies, destroyed those murderers, and burned up their city.” YLT: “`And the king having heard, was wroth, and having sent forth his soldiers, he destroyed those murderers, and their city he set on fire;” Literal Meaning: “burned up their city” It is the common military action in ancient time. Spiritual Meaning: this verse predicted the state that God judges the Jews in future and Jerusalem was ruined. It was fulfilled in A.D. 70, Titus led Roman army to break and ruin the city of Jerusalem. They also killed many Jewish people and their blood flowed and had become a river.

Matt. 22:8 “Then he said to his servants, ‘The wedding is ready, but those who were invited were not worthy.” YLT: “then saith he to his servants, The marriage-feast indeed is ready, and those called were not worthy,” Spiritual Meaning: “those who were invited were not worthy” “Those who were invited” indicate the Jews; “were not worthy” indicate that they did not receive God’s salvation. The Jews put themselves on the position of “unworthy” because they rejected the salvation of the Lord Jesus (See Acts. 13:46). Enlightenment in the Word: 1) On one hand, their “unworthy” is shown because of their “unwilling” (v.3) and “make light of it” (v.5); on the other, because of their “unworthy”, they were rejected. 2) Israel, which followed after the law of righteousness, has not summated to the righteousness of God (See Rom. 9:31, 10:3), therefore they are unworthy to receive the grace of justification through faith. Those who have something to seek besides what God has prepared are unworthy before God. 3) The attitude of the unworthy towards the “full Christ” who is the God’s preparation: a) “One to his own farm” (v.5) ------they support themselves by relying on themselves. b) “Another to his business” (v.5) ------they secure personal gain and try to gain early richness. c) “Seized the servants, treated them spitefully and killed them” (v.6) ------they firmly reject spiritual message.

Matt. 22:9 “Therefore go into the highways, and as many as you find, invite to the wedding.'” YLT: “be going, then, on to the cross-ways, and as many as ye may find, call ye to the marriage-feasts.” Meaning of Words: “highways”: exist. Literal Meaning: “go into the highways” “highways” indicate broad ways at that time or the markets to go to fair. Spiritual Meaning: because the Jews rejected God’s calling of grace, God has to turn to the Gentiles (See Acts. 13:46, Rom. 11:11). “As many as you find, invite to the wedding.” It shows that Gentile believers are saved because of God’s invitation of grace instead of our initiative pursuit. Enlightenment in the Word: 1) We, the Gentile believers, originally walked in the “highways” of life and were anxious about where to go, are given grace unexpectedly. 2) While men are hesitant in “highways”, they are easy to be guided by others; those who are in trouble are easy to receive the glad tidings.

Matt. 22:10 “So those servants went out into the highways and gathered together all whom they found, both bad and good. And the wedding hall was filled with guests.” YLT: “`And those servants, having gone forth to the ways, did gather all, as many as they found, both bad and good, and the marriage-feast apartment was filled with those reclining.” Literal Meaning: “gathered together all whom they found, both bad and good.” It indicates the man who were invited include all kinds of people. Anyone who is willing to come can come no matter he is bad or good. Enlightenment in the Word: 1) We originally followed the masses and crowded into “the wide gate” which leads to destruction (See Matt. 7:13), however, we now become God’s guests. How fortune we are! How greatly we have been exalted by God! 2) The salvation is not through deeds but grace (See Eph. 2:8-9). Therefore our past misdeeds have been forgiven and no matter we were bad or good in the past, we are able to receive grace. 3) “Both bad and good” shows the principle of salvation fully exceeds men’s states------both the good and the bad are able to receive grace------mercy was shown to the chief of sinners (See 1Tim. 1:15-16).

Matt. 22:11 “‘But when the king came in to see the guests, he saw a man there who did not have on a wedding garment.” YLT: “`And the king having come in to view those reclining, saw there a man not clothed with clothing of the marriage-feast,” Literal Meaning: “he saw a man there who did not have on a wedding garment” At that time, they were invited to come to the wedding on the way (See v.9-10) and therefore they couldn’t have on wedding garments. The only reasonable explanation is that the Lord also prepared the garments for the wedding for all the guests. Since that guest had been invited, he was unwilling to have on the wedding garment which the Lord had prepared for him. It was very impolite to the Lord. Spiritual Meaning: “garment” in the Bible represents “the righteousness” (See Rev. 19:8). Because the guests who were invited were both bad and good (See v.10), here the righteousness must not be their own righteousness. At the same time, since the wedding garment was prepared by the lord, undoubtedly, this garment must be “the best robe” (Luke. 15:22) which was prepared by God, i.e. Christ Himself as the robe of righteous (See Is. 61:10). “A man there who did not have on a wedding garment” Since he was one of the guests, he must have received God’s invitation. The one who was invited but “did not have on a wedding garment” should be a nominal Christian who had not truly repented, believed in the Lord or was saved. To the false Christians, they were unable to enjoy the joy of salvation. Some Bible exegetes explained that the wedding here will be performed until the beginning of the kingdom of a thousand years, the time of the marriage of the Lamb (See Rev. 19:7). Therefore, the garment in the wedding should be the fine line, i.e. the righteousness of saints (Rev. 19:8). Therefore the one who “did not have on the wedding garment” should have been saved and received Christ as his objective righteousness and make him be justified before God (See 1Cor. 1:30; Rom. 3:26); the problem is that after he was saved, he did not live out Christ as his subjective righteousness (See Pill. 3:9) and therefore he was a failing Christian who did not walk worthy of the calling (See Eph. 4:1) and did not put on the Lord Jesus Christ (Rom. 13:14, Gal. 3:27). Because the joy and glory of the kingdom in future are prepared for the overcoming Christians, the failing Christians are unqualified to enjoy the wedding. Enlightenment in the Word: 1) God gave the unworthy ones the invitations which they were unworthy to receive and supplied the righteousness which those who had received the invitations needed------all these are grace. 2) Those who hold themselves righteous think that their own clothes are good and therefore they are unwilling to put on the clothes which God has prepared and rely on the righteousness of Christ. 3) If one wants to enjoy Christ, he has to put on Christ, hide in Christ, boast in Christ and manifest Christ. Anyone who is unwilling to fully rely on Christ is unable to completely enjoy Christ.

Matt. 22:12 “So he said to him, ‘Friend, how did you come in here without a wedding garment?' And he was speechless.” YLT: “and he saith to him, Comrade, how didst thou come in hither, not having clothing of the marriage-feast? and he was speechless.” Literal Meaning: “and he was speechless” shows that he commits the mistake intentionally and there is no room for him to defend himself.

Matt. 22:13 “Then the king said to the servants, ‘Bind him hand and foot, take him away, and cast him into outer darkness; there will be weeping and gnashing of teeth.'” YLT: “`Then said the king to the ministrants, Having bound his feet and hands, take him up and cast forth to the outer darkness, there shall be the weeping and the gnashing of the teeth;” The Background: in ancient times, the wedding of the Jews was held in night. The house is ablaze with lights and the outer is in darkness. Spiritual Meaning: “the servants” indicate angels (See Matt. 13:41, 49). “Cast him into outer darkness” “outer darkness” has two meanings: a) If the one who did not have on a wedding garment is the one who has not been saved, it is the everlasting perdition. b) If the one who did not have on a wedding garment is a failing Christian, it is the punishment of the kingdom of a thousand years (See Matt. 25:30); in the kingdom of a thousand years, they shall be cast out from the light of the Lord’s countenance temporarily and shall not partake in the wedding of the kingdom of God (See Matt. 8:11-12), however, they shall be saved finally (See 1Cor. 3:15). Enlightenment in the Word: 1) Anyone who does not believe in or rely on Christ will sink into “outer darkness” and has neither part nor lot in Christ. 2) In the kingdom of a thousand years, the overcoming believers shall also be manifested with Him in the bright glory (See Col. 3:4), however, the failing Christians will receive God’s punishment in outer darkness.

Matt. 22:14 “‘For many are called, but few are chosen.’” YLT: “for many are called, and few chosen.’” Spiritual Meaning: this verse has three different kinds of explanations: a) The Jews who were called were many, however, those who received were few. b) Those who called themselves Christians were many, however, those who were truly saved were few; in the so-called world of Christianity, the tares may be more than the wheat (See Matt. 13:24-30) because the nominal Catholics and Christians are countless. c) Those who were saved were many, however, the overcomers were few; “being called” indicates to receive the salvation (See Rom. 1:7; 1Cor. 1:2, Eph. 4:1) and “being chosen” indicates to gain the reward. Enlightenment in the Word: 1) Believers should not be satisfied with being called and they should seek to be chosen. 2) They which run in a race run all, but one receives the price; believers should run like this, that we may obtain (1Cor. 9:24).

Matt. 22:15 “Then the Pharisees went and plotted how they might entangle Him in His talk.” YLT: “Then the Pharisees having gone, took counsel how they might ensnare him in words,” The Background: “the Pharisees” were Judaists who loved the traditions of their elders (See Acts. 15:1-2). They, with the strong national consciousness, certainly opposed the dominion of the Raman Empire. Enlightenment in the Word: the Pharisees cannot take hold of the Lord Jesus in deeds, then they tried to find fault with His words; believers should beware of deeds and words (See Col. 4:5-6).

Matt. 22:16 “And they sent to Him their disciples with the Herodians, saying, ‘Teacher, we know that You are true, and teach the way of God in truth; nor do You care about anyone, for You do not regard the person of men.” YLT: “and they send to him their disciples with the Herodians, saying, `Teacher, we have known that thou art true, and the way of God in truth thou dost teach, and thou art not caring for any one, for thou dost not look to the face of men;” Meaning of Words: “way”: journey, highway. The Background: “the Herodians” was not a religious group. It was a political party, the puppet government which supported the Roman Empire------the dominion of the Herod Dynasty in the Jews. Therefore, they were deeply hated by the Pharisees. Literal Meaning: “they sent their disciples” “they” indicate the Pharisees (See v.15). “ With the Herodians” Usually the Pharisees and the Herodians opposed against each other and they were incompatible as fire and water. Unexpectedly, they joined hands to take hold of Jesus in langue in order to set a trap for Him now. “Teach the way of God” indicate to teach men to understand the will of God so as to walk on the way of God. Enlightenment in the Word: 1) In daily life, believers may be in a dilemma between things of God and things of men or between being of spiritual and of the world. We could learn the principle to deal with this kind of problems from the response of the Lord Jesus. 2) In behaviors and works, believers should imitate the Lord as an example. Believers should never make a trade of the word of God (2Cor. 2:17) and the word should not be “Yes and No” (2Cor. 1:18). At the same time, we should not make a difference among men (James. 2:4) or be puffed up one for another against another (1Cor. 4:6). 3) Our enemies are not only from the outside of the church but also from the inside; they are not only from the outside of ourselves, but also from the within. 4) Those who want to set a trap for you may say sweat words to you; even Satan may hide in the beautiful snake and transform itself into an angel of light (See 2Cor. 11:3, 14). Therefore we should learn not to be deceived by men’s outward sweat words. 5) Believers should not be carless in dealing with people; the Lord teaches us to beware of men and be wise as serpents (See Matt. 10:16-17).

Matt. 22:17 “Tell us, therefore, what do You think? Is it lawful to pay taxes to Caesar, or not?’” YLT: “tell us, therefore, what dost thou think? is it lawful to give tribute to Caesar or not?’” The Background: “pay taxes to Caesar” “Tax” means capitation in the original and it was only applied in provinces which were directly administered by the Roman Empire. Every male above fourteen and every female above twelve must pay the capitation until they are sixty-five. Literal Meaning: this problem is very treacherous and it is the trap of Satan. One may be taken hold of whether he answers yes or no. If the Lord says yes, the Pharisees would accuse Him before the Jews that He is unfaithful to the kingdom of the Jews as a slave of the foreign power and the betrayer of the Jews. If the Lord says no, the Herodians would accuse that He is rebellious to the Roman governor and He may be sentenced to death for this.

Matt. 22:18 “But Jesus perceived their wickedness, and said, ‘Why do you test Me, you hypocrites?” YLT: “And Jesus having known their wickedness, said, `Why me do ye tempt, hypocrites?” Enlightenment in the Word: when dealing with others, firstly we should have spiritual sight to see men’s hidden hearts and thoughts. This ability grows by the growth of spiritual life because the spiritual discerns all things (1Cor. 2:15).

Matt. 22:19 “Show Me the tax money.’ So they brought Him a denarius.” YLT: “show me the tribute-coin?’ and they brought to him a denary;” The Background: “show Me the tax money” At that time, three kinds of currency systems were in common use in the land of Palestine. One was the denarion which was molded in Rome and one had to use this kind of currency to “pay the tax” (See v.17); the second was the drachma molded according to the Greek standard and it was the currency of provinces and was molded in Antioch and Tyre; the third was the local currency of the Jews and it was called shekel which may be molded in Caesarea. Literal Meaning: please note that there was not “the tax money” in the Lord Jesus; the Pharisees brought the money with them, however, they were unwilling to pay the tax and therefore the Lord Jesus called them “the hypocrites” (See v.18), for their works were evil. Enlightenment in the Word: the one who has the “the tax money” on them should pay the tax (Rom. 13:7).

Matt. 22:20 “And He said to them, ‘Whose image and inscription is this?’” YLT: “and he saith to them, `Whose [is] this image and the inscription?’” The Background: the image of the Roman Emperor Caesar was carved on one side of the Roman coin in common use at that time. And the inscription of Caesar was written in Latin on the other side. Enlightenment in the Word: 1) “The image and inscription” symbolize the authority of men and the Lord admitted that God had given men some authority (Rom. 13:1). 2) The authority which was given by God has its realm and boundary. Anyone who is under this realm and boundary should fear, honor and obey the authority (See Rom. 13:1-7).

Matt. 22:21 “They said to Him, ‘Caesar's.’ And He said to them, ‘Render therefore to Caesar the things that are Caesar's, and to God the things that are God's.’” YLT: “they say to him, `Caesar’s; `then saith he to them, `Render therefore the things of Caesar to Caesar, and the things of God to God;’” Meaning of Words: “Caesar”: to slit, cut open along a line (today men call the operation to cut the belly open for birth as Caesarian operation). Literal Meaning: “render therefore to Caesar the things that are Caesar’s.” “Caesar” is the title of the Roman Emperor and it represents the whole Roman regime; paying tax to the one who is in power is the duty the citizens should do. To God’s people who live in this world, paying tax to the government is not contrary to being a citizen of the kingdom of God. “ To God the things that are God’s.” It seems that all the possession of believers are gained by their own abilities, physical power and time, but actually they are given by God (See 1Tim. 6:17) and therefore we should thank God and dedicate to Him (See Mal. 3:8-10). Enlightenment in the Word: 1) Political and spiritual things should never be mentioned in the same breath. In political things, we should obey the authority (Rom. 13:1-7); in spiritual things we should obey God and serve God wholeheartedly. 2) On one hand, believers are under the direct authority of God, on the other, believers are under the indirect authority of men. When men’s authority exceeds the realm and trespasses the authority of God, believers ought to “obey God rather than men” (See Acts. 5:29). 3) We should learn to discern what is of God and what is of men, and spiritual things and worldly things and should not garble them with each other. 4) “To Caesar the things that are Caesar’s” shows that God won’t accept anything that is not of Him. We should not use worldly things in spiritual things (such as using rock and other worldly ways to spread the glad tidings). 5) “Caesar” means to cut; Satan wants to cut off all that is of God and God is willing to cut off all that is of Satan. 6) “To God the things that are God’s” shows that God never allows anyone to trespass all that is of Him; believers should be separated to God and should not be gained by the king of this world.

Matt. 22:22 “When they had heard these words, they marveled, and left Him and went their way.” YLT: “and having heard they wondered, and having left him they went away.” Literal Meaning: this implies that the Lord had overcome the difficulty. The enemy could do nothing for Him and had to leave him. Enlightenment in the Word: 1) Believers should not rely on themselves to deal with difficulties, but look up to the Holy Spirit to give us what we shall speak (See Matt. 10:19-20). 2) Once the Lord speaks, the opposed shall shrink back from difficulties; therefore when facing hecklings, the best way is to call upon Him because whosoever calls on the name of the Lord shall be saved (See Rom. 10:13).

Matt. 22:23 “The same day the Sadducees, who say there is no resurrection, came to Him and asked Him,” YLT: “In that day there came near to him Sadducees, who are saying there is not a rising again, and they questioned him, saying,” The Background: “the Sadducees” did not believe resurrection. They held that men perish completely after death and therefore there were no ghosts or angels. They only received the Pentateuch. Enlightenment in the Word: “the Sadducees” were “rationalists” in Judaism. They are likened to the “Modernism Liberalism” in Christianity------they only stress on actuality and disregard the future and they only have hope in this life (See 1Cor. 15:19).

Matt. 22:24 “saying: ‘Teacher, Moses said that if a man dies, having no children, his brother shall marry his wife and raise up offspring for his brother.” YLT: “`Teacher, Moses said, If any one may die not having children, his brother shall marry his wife, and shall raise up seed to his brother.” Literal Meaning: this is a law in the Jewish social system in the dispensation of the Old Testament and it was the law concerning to raise up offspring for one’s brother (Deut. 25:5-6). Originally it was set up to protect widows and assure the continuation of the family pedigree. This is the well-known “Levirate Marriage”. The early ancestors of the Jews already had this established precedent (See Gen. 38:8).

Matt. 22:25 “Now there were with us seven brothers. The first died after he had married, and having no offspring, left his wife to his brother.” YLT: “`And there were with us seven brothers, and the first having married did die, and not having seed, he left his wife to his brother;” Literal Meaning: “now there were with us” This is the fictitious narrative.

Matt. 22:26 “Likewise the second also, and the third, even to the seventh.” YLT: “in like manner also the second, and the third, unto the seventh,”

Matt. 22:27 “Last of all the woman died also.” YLT: “and last of all died also the woman;”

Matt. 22:28 “Therefore, in the resurrection, whose wife of the seven will she be? For they all had her.’” YLT: “therefore in the rising again, of which of the seven shall she be wife for all had her?’” Literal Meaning: they made up this story with the aim of making the resurrection seem to be ridiculous through this problem. They did not believe the resurrection and held that the so-called resurrection of others was only the resurrection of body and men would keep on the family life in this life. If the resurrection is so in deed, it may bring difficult problems to everybody. Enlightenment in the Word: just like the Sadducees imagine the state after resurrection by the view of this life, if we live in nature and walk by sight, not by faith (See 2Cor. 5:7), we won’t comprehend spiritual things and absolutely there will be many queer opinions and problems.

Matt. 22:29 “Jesus answered and said to them, ‘You are mistaken, not knowing the Scriptures nor the power of God.” YLT: “And Jesus answering said to them, `Ye go astray, not knowing the Writings, nor the power of God;” Literal Meaning: the Lord Jesus pointed that the Sadducees were wrong not only because they did not believe the fact of resurrection but also because of their wrong concept of resurrection. Firstly, they “did not know the Scriptures” and therefore they misunderstood the words of the Scriptures; secondly, they “did not know the power of God” and therefore they did not believe that God not only is able to rise men from dead but also could solve the difficult problems such as the complicated family problem that they mentioned here. “The power of God” is clearly manifested in resurrection (See Rom. 1:4, Eph. 1:19-20). Enlightenment in the Word: 1) The reason why the concepts of the unbelievers, those who live in nature and liberalists are wrong is nothing more than two reasons: firstly, they do not know the Scriptures, i.e. not having spiritual knowledge; secondly, they do not know the power of God, i.e. not having spiritual experience. 2) If Christians lack spiritual knowledge or experience, we may fall in mistake without any consciousness. 3) The Scriptures is able to make men wise unto salvation (2Tim. 3:15). If one wants to know the Scriptures, he has to have the correct intention and attitude, otherwise, one may always learn and is never able to come to the knowledge of truth (See 2Tim. 3:7). 4) What Paul the Apostle prayed and asked is to know more about the power of God and so that he may attain more unto the resurrection of dead (See Eph. 1:19, Pill. 3:10-11).

Matt. 22:30 “For in the resurrection they neither marry nor are given in marriage, but are like angels of God in heaven.” YLT: “for in the rising again they do not marry, nor are they given in marriage, but are as messengers of God in heaven.” Literal Meaning: “are like angels of God in heaven” The main point is that angels do not have the body of flesh and therefore there aren’t differences between male and female and certainly they do not get married to have heirs. The Lord Jesus mentioned “angels of God in heaven” and this also rebutted wrongness of the Sadducees that they did not believe angels of God. Our bodies now are earthly, corruptible, dishonorable, weak, of soul and of earth. However, the bodies after resurrection are heavenly, incorruptible, honorable, strong, of spirit and of heaven (See 1Cor. 15:35-50). Men’s lifetime and after death are of totally two different realms and therefore we should not infer the states that we will face in future according to works and deeds in this body today.

Matt. 22:31 “But concerning the resurrection of the dead, have you not read what was spoken to you by God, saying,” YLT: “`And concerning the rising again of the dead, did ye not read that which was spoken to you by God, saying,” Enlightenment in the Word: From the words of the Lord we could know that being familiar with and knowing the Scriptures are the key to open the mysteries of the word to come.

Matt. 22:32 “‘I am the God of Abraham, the God of Isaac, and the God of Jacob'? God is not the God of the dead, but of the living.’” YLT: “I am the God of Abraham, and the God of Isaac, and the God of Jacob? God is not a God of dead men, but of living.’” Literal Meaning: When the Lord Jesus investigated the resurrection of dead with the Sadducees, He quoted the words in Pentateuch (See Exod. 3:6) because the Law of Moses was still in authority to the Sadducees who did not believe the resurrection. Jesus means that: a) Since God calls Himself the God of Abraham, Isaac and Jacob and He Himself is not the God of the dead. Therefore though Abraham, Isaac and Jacob were dead, God will rise them (See Matt. 8:11), otherwise He may be the God of the dead. b) Abraham, Isaac and Jacob were all dead, however, when God mentioned them before Moses, they seemed to be still alive just like in the same age with Moses. Now God said that He is the God of them, it is clearly seen that they are still alive in God’s eyes. Enlightenment in the Word: 1) “God is the God of living” shows that: a) He is the originator of life and should not be held by death (Acts. 3:15). b) All that make men die and make men not experience the life have nothing with God. c) He is the source of “life” and we can live only by drawing near to Him and enjoying Him. d) If believers are not “living”, we cannot supply life and then we bring disgrace to our God. 2) Believers should let Christ be magnified in their body whether by life or by death (See Pill. 1:20); in this way, though we may be dead in flesh, our spirits still live before God.

Matt. 22:33 “And when the multitudes heard this, they were astonished at His teaching.” YLT: “And having heard, the multitudes were astonished at his teaching;” Enlightenment in the Word: His teachings were from the knowledge of the Scriptures and the power of God. Only the teachings that are given to others under these two principles are able to silence the enemy and give true help to believers.

Matt. 22:34 “But when the Pharisees heard that He had silenced the Sadducees, they gathered together.” YLT: “and the Pharisees, having heard that he did silence the Sadducees, were gathered together unto him;”

Matt. 22:35 “Then one of them, a lawyer, asked Him a question, testing Him, and saying,” YLT: “and one of them, a lawyer, did question, tempting him, and saying,” Literal Meaning: “one of them, a lawyer” “Lawyer” was the scribe who was very familiar with the Law of the Moses and was of the Pharisees. “Testing Him” This lawyer must hold himself that He was very familiar with the Law and commandments. He wanted to examine the Lord Jesus in order to show that the knowledge of the Scriptures of the Lord Jesus was so so by this and make a fool of the Lord.

Matt. 22:36 “‘Teacher, which is the great commandment in the law?’” YLT: “`Teacher, which [is] the great command in the Law?’” The Background: the layers who searched the Law of the Old Testament carefully publicly acknowledged that there were six hundred and eleven commandments and this number was equal to the number of the Hebrew numbers which were used in the Ten Commandment. Two hundred and forty- eight of them were positive laws and this number was equal to the total number of the structure of human body. Three hundred and sixty-five of them were negative laws and this number was equal to the days of a year. Literal Meaning: The original meaning of this question asked by the layer was not that which was the greatest commandment in all the six hundred and eleven commandments but what was the principle to judge the greatness of commandments. On one hand, every commandment of the Law is very important and whoever offends in one point, he is guilty of all (James. 2:10, Matt. 5:19); on the other, if men could catch the quintessence of some commandments, and so on they may grasp the whole commandments. Therefore there is a saying of the great commandment. From the following answer of the Lord we could see that He also agree on this method of clarification of greatness. Enlightenment in the Word: when searching the Bible, we should also seize the importance of the Bible. Then we cannot go so far as to stress on the shadows (such as the meat, the drink, the Sabbath and etc) and phenomenon (such as speaking dialects, healing the sick and etc) and neglect spiritual body and reality (See Col. 2:16-17, 1Cor. 13:8).

Matt. 22:37 “Jesus said to him,’ ‘You shall love the LORD your God with all your heart, with all your soul, and with all your mind.'” YLT: “And Jesus said to him, `Thou shalt love the Lord thy God with all thy heart, and with all thy soul, and with all thine understanding” Meaning of Words: love: divine love (agapao). Literal Meaning: “with all your heart, with all your soul, and with all your mind” means that love God with the whole body and the whole life (See Deut. 6:4-5). Here the triple descriptions mainly have the tone of emphasis. Enlightenment in the Word: 1) If any man does not love the Lord Jesus Christ, let him be Anathema Maranatha (1Cor. 16:22); we love because He has first loved us (1John. 4:19). 2) What God demands us is to love Him “with all your heart, with all your soul, with all your mind and with all your strength” (Mark. 12:30). We have to admit that we cannot do it by ourselves. Only when we are filled up, immersed and compelled by God’s love (2Cor. 5:14) can we reveal His love naturally.

Matt. 22:38 “This is the first and great commandment.” YLT: “this is a first and great command;” Literal Meaning: “the first and great” could also be “great and primary”. Even if men have obeyed all the commandments, what they have done are worthless before God if they have done all these not for the sake of loving God. Therefore loving God is the first and great commandment.

Matt. 22:39 “And the second is like it: ‘You shall love your neighbor as yourself.'” YLT: “and the second [is] like to it, Thou shalt love thy neighbor as thyself;” The Background: the Ten Commandments could be divided into two parts. One part is towards God and the other towards men (See Exod. 20:3-17). At that time, this passage from v.37 to v.39 was in the prayer of the Jews. The common Jews knew that the great principle of the Old Testament is to love God and men. Literal Meaning: “the second is like it” “Like” means that love must be manifested. “You shall love your neighbor as yourself” is quoted from Lev. 19:18. Enlightenment in the Word: 1) Men have to love God first and then are able to love men and love your neighbor as yourselves. 2) We, in our behaviors, should do our duty both to God and men. To God, the hinge must be love; to men, certainly love should be the key. 3) Those who love God are able to love men and therefore loving God includes the whole Law. Today the principle of Christians’ life is to love the Lord your God. 4) “Love your neighbor as yourself” is to love unconditionally, i.e. the love of sacrifice. Only those who live in the divine life are able to do this. He loved me and gave Himself for me (Gal. 2:20). 5) Men should love others just like how they love themselves and are self- centered (See Matt. 7:12). The principle of prayer is also the life (not in word only).

Matt. 22:40 “On these two commandments hang all the Law and the Prophets.’” YLT: “on these the two commands all the law and the prophets do hang.’” Meaning of Words: “hang”: stand on, string up, and lean on. Literal Meaning: “these two commandments” These two commandments include all commandments. The former includes all commandments towards God and the latter includes all commandments towards men. “The Law and the Prophets” is the whole Old Testament. Enlightenment in the Word: 1) All the Law and the prophets all hang on and stand on “love”. Though we have kept all the commandments of the Law and known all the Law and the prophets, I have not love, all these are in vain and the vanity of vanities (See 1Cor. 13). 2) On love hang the Law, showing that the principle of the Law is the grace of love instead of the deeds of righteousness. Anyone who keeps the Law only according to letters has not understood the heart of God.

Matt. 22:41 “While the Pharisees were gathered together, Jesus asked them,” YLT: “And the Pharisees having been gathered together, Jesus did question them,”

Matt. 22:42 “saying, ‘What do you think about the Christ? Whose Son is He?’ They said to Him, ‘The Son of David.’” YLT: “saying, `What do ye think concerning the Christ? of whom is he son?’ They say to him, `Of David.’” Meaning of Words: “Christ”: the anointed one. Enlightenment in the Word: 1) Common people only notice various kinds of questions beyond Christ, however, the Lord is only deeply concerned about our knowledge towards Him because it is the question behind questions and it is the greatest question of life. 2) The reason why men doubt about many things is that they lack the knowledge of Christ. 3) Common people pay attention to the problems of politics, religion and the letters of the Law and neglect Christ; the politics, religion and the letters of the Law without Christ are vanity of vanities. 4) The most important problem of the world is the knowledge of Christ. Only Christ is the answer of all problems. 5) Paul the Apostle had known the excellency of the knowledge of Christ, for whom he had suffered the loss of all things, and counted them dung (See Pill. 3:8) therefore he knew nothing save Jesus Christ, and Him crucified (1Cor. 2:2).

Matt. 22:43 “He said to them, ‘How then does David in the Spirit call Him ‘Lord,' saying:” YLT: “He saith to them, `How then doth David in the Spirit call him lord, saying,” Literal Meaning: “in the Spirit”. The Pharisees could only know that the coming “Messiah” (the name of Christ in Hebrew and it means the anointed one) is the Son of David according to the literal prophecy of prophets. They did not seek to understand the words written by David in the Spirit thoroughly (Ps. 110:1). Enlightenment in the Word: only when we are in the Spirit and by the revelation of God can we know Christ (See Eph. 3:5).

Matt. 22:44 “‘The LORD said to my Lord, ‘Sit at My right hand, Till I make Your enemies Your footstool’?” YLT: “The Lord said to my lord, Sit at my right hand, till I may make thine enemies thy footstool?” Literal Meaning: “the LORD said to my Lord” The first “LORD” is Jehovah God and the second “Lord” is the Messiah. The key of this quotation is “my Lord”. Spiritual Meaning: note that this verse typifies the state that the Lord sits by the right hand of the Father now.

Matt. 22:45 “If David then calls Him ‘Lord,' how is He his Son?’” YLT: “If then David doth call him lord, how is he his son?’” Spiritual Meaning: according to the flesh, Christ is “the Son of David”; according to the Spirit of holiness, Christ is also “the Lord of David” (See Rom. 1:3-4). Christ is “the Son of David”, showing the aspect of the lowliness of His humanity; Christ is “the Lord of David”, showing the other aspect of the glory of His divinity. Enlightenment in the Word: today do we have complete knowledge of this glorious and all-sufficient Christ? Wish the Lord ask this question to each of us.

Matt. 22:46 “And no one was able to answer Him a word, nor from that day on did anyone dare question Him anymore.” YLT: “And no one was able to answer him a word, nor durst any from that day question him any more.” Enlightenment in the Word: 1) Beyond Christ, we may have many excuses and reasons, however, if we have been brought to the Lord truly, all the excuses and reasons would become unnecessary. It was without exception and none of the words is meaningful. 2) All the problems of life will disappear in Christ. He is the answer of all questions. He is the one that “I am” (John. 8:58). If we need something, He is that what we need. III. Outlines of the Spiritual Lessons

The Parable of the Kingdom of Heaven I. The content of the kingdom of heaven------God has arranged a marriage for His son (v.1-2). II. The people who were predestinated to be invited to the kingdom of heaven originally------Israel (v.3-4). III. Those who were called were not worthy------Israel rejected the kingdom of heaven and was punished by God (v.5-8). IV. God turned to invite the Gentiles------the servants went out into highways and gathered together all whom they found, both bad and good (v.9-10). V. A man of the guests did not have on a wedding garment------he was cast out into outer darkness (v.11-13). VI. Those who were in the kingdom of heaven must be chosen------many are called, but few are chosen (v.14).

The Nature of the Kingdom of Heaven I. One has to appropriate the righteousness of Christ by God’s grace and then he is able to partake in the kingdom of heaven (v.1-14). II. One should bring the earthly things into the kingdom of heaven, there must be separation between what is of earth and what is of heaven (v.15-22). III. What is in the kingdom of heaven must be the life of resurrection (v.23-33). IV. On loving God and men hang the Law of the kingdom of heaven (v.34-40). V. The knowledge of Christ is the way to enter into the kingdom of heaven (v.41- 46).

Men Held the Attitude of Ignorance I. They made light of the glad tidings (v.1-14): A. Some of them were unwilling to come (v.3). B. Some of them valued money more, made light of it and went their ways (v.5). C. Some of them treated them spitefully and killed them (v.6). D. Some of them did not have on wedding garments though they came to the feast (v.11). II. They made light of God’s words preached by Christ (v.15-22): A. They wanted to set a trap for Him by His words (v.15). B. They tried to tempt Him with political persons (v.17). III. They made light of the resurrection (v.23-33): A. They used fictitious narrative to heckle Him (v.24-28). B. Because they did not know the Scriptures nor the power of God (v.29). IV. They made light of the body of the Law (v.29-46): A. They only reached the letters of the Law (.v36). B. They did not know that the Law is the shadow of Christ (v.42).

The King Is the Answer of All Questions I. The practical problems in daily life: A. The dilemma of obeying God and obeying men (v.15-17). B. To Caesar the things that are Caesar’s, and to God the things that are God’s (v.18-22). II. The problem of lifetime and after death: A. Natural men do not comprehend spiritual things (v.23-28). B. We should know the Scriptures and the power of God (v.29-33). III. The problem of the great commandment: A. The layers think themselves that they are proficient in the commandments of the Law (v.34-36). B. ON loving God and men hang all the Law and the prophets (v.37-40). IV. Christ is the answer of all problems: A. The question behind questions------what do you think about Christ (v.41- 45)? B. Once the problem of Christ has been solved, the other problems will disappear (v.46).

Christ Overcame All I. Christ overcame politics (v.15-22). II. Christ overcame religions (v.23-33). III. Christ overcame the Law (v.34-40). IV. Christ overcame finally------He is the king of kings (v.41-46).

Concerning the Resurrection I. The existence of resurrection is the power of God (v.29). II. The state of resurrection is just like angels of God in heaven (v.30). III. The proof of resurrection is that God is the God of the living (v.32).

Matthew Chapter Twenty-three

The King’s Warning, Blame and Sigh I. The Lord’s warning towards His disciples: A. Do not imitate the deeds of the Pharisees (v.1-4). B. Do not follow the Pharisees’ vainglory (5-12). II. The Lord’s blame towards the Pharisees: A. They shut up the kingdom of heaven (v.13). B. They devour widows’ houses (v.14). C. They win one proselyte (v.15). D. They are blind guides (v.16-22). E. They concentrate on details and forget the main purpose (v.23-24). F. They are clean outside and inside are unclean (v.25-26). G. They are like the whitewashed tombs (v.27-28). H. They murder prophets (v.29-36). III. The Lord’s sigh towards Jerusalem: A. The Lord is “willing” many times, however, they are “not willing” (v.37). B. He predicted that the city of Jerusalem and the Holy Temple would become desolate (v.38). C. He predicted that they must know Him as the Messiah in the last day (v.39).

Matt. 23:1 “Then Jesus spoke to the multitudes and to His disciples,” YLT: “Then Jesus spake to the multitudes, and to his disciples,” Literal Meaning: before this time, when the Lord preached, He usually did not mix His disciples with the multitudes. He taught according to different audiences (See Matt. 5:1-2, 10:5, 13:10-11, 18:1). Now He “spoke to the multitudes and His disciples”. This shows that the following teachings were said especially for the Jews, including His disciples (at this time His disciples listened to the teachings standing on the position of the Jews). Therefore, to believers in the dispensation of grace, it is not suitable for us to keep some sentences in this chapter literally, for example “whatever they tell you to observe, that observe and do” (See v.3), “swear by…” (See v.20-22), etc.

Matt. 23:2 “saying: ‘The scribes and the Pharisees sit in Moses' seat.” YLT: “saying, `On the seat of Moses sat down the scribes and the Pharisees;” The Background: usually the “Moses’ seat” was set in the synagogue of the Jews. It was hewed by big stones and the scribe was invited to sit on it and interpret the meaning of the Law to the multitudes. Literal Meaning: “the scribes and the Pharisees” were a group of people who were zealous in the traditions of the Jewish elders. They asked the Jews to keep the Law of Moses first and the regulations made by the elders of all generations in addition. “Sit in Moses’ seat” “Moses’ seat” indicates the position to teach and instruct the Law of Moses. Therefore, it has the authority of representing the Law (See Ezra. 7:6, 25-26).

Matt. 23:3 “Therefore whatever they tell you to observe, that observe and do, but do not do according to their works; for they say, and do not do.” YLT: “all, then, as much as they may say to you to observe, observe and do, but according to their works do not, for they say, and do not;” Literal Meaning: “whatever they tell you to observe” indicate their teachings about the Law; the “whatever” here is the tone of emphasis and this does not mean all the words that they tell (See Matt. 16:6, 12). “That observe and do” “You” were the Jews, including His disciples. At that time the Lord had not been crucified. It was the joint point between the dispensation of the Law and the dispensation of grace and the disciples had not been delivered from the Law. And therefore they still needed to observe and do the Law. Today, believers have already entered into the dispensation of grace and we do not need to keep the laws of ceremonies (See Col. 2: 14, 20-21), however, we still need to keep the laws and regulations concerning morality (not the letter). “They say, and do not do.” This is the feature of the hypocrites (See Rom. 2:21). Enlightenment in the Word: 1) Believers should not despise the teachings preached by the preacher according to the Bible. After we have proved it, we should hold fast what is good (See 1Thess. 5:20-21). 2) The feature of the Pharisees is that “they say, and do not do”. Today, there are many preachers who also “say, and do not do”. We who receive teachings should not only pat attention to “listen” but also pay heed to “see”. 3) The common fault of religious believers is that they say and do not do------what they do does not accord with what they say------“the voice is Jacob’s voice, but the hands are the hands of Esau” (Gen. 27:22). 4) Those who “say and do not do” must not know what they are truly saying because the true knowledge certainly brings in the true practice. 5) Only the Lord Jesus is “mighty in deed and word” (Luke. 24:19). He says and does. Anyone who lives by the life of the Lord is able to say and do. 6) The true witness of the Lord must have both spiritual knowledge and spiritual experience, i.e. the one who says and does. We should imitate this kind of people (See 1Cor. 11:1, 1Thess. 1:6).

Matt. 23:4 “For they bind heavy burdens, hard to bear, and lay them on men's shoulders; but they themselves will not move them with one of their fingers.” YLT: “for they bind together burdens heavy and grievous to be borne, and lay upon the shoulders of men, but with their finger they will not move them.” Literal Meaning: “they bind heavy burdens, hard to bear, and lay them on men’s shoulders.” “Heavy burdens” especially indicate the burdens of the Law; they bind many strict letters and regulations on men and make it difficult for them to carry out. “They themselves will not move them with one of their fingers.” It means that they use the strict regulations to demand others instead of themselves. Enlightenment in the Word: 1) Believers not only should not lay burdens on others’ shoulders but also should bear one another’s burdens (See Gal. 6:2). 2) Religious believers are not only “unable” to do but also “unwilling” to move. Anyone who only knows to teach others and will not move himself with one of his fingers is unworthy to be a leader of the church.

Matt. 23:5 “But all their works they do to be seen by men. They make their phylacteries broad and enlarge the borders of their garments.” YLT: “`And all their works they do to be seen by men, and they make broad their phylacteries, and enlarge the fringes of their garments,” Meaning of Words: “borders of their garments”: guard keeper. The Background: “borders of their garments” The ancient Jews wrote four passages of words in the Scriptures (Exod. 13:1-10, 11-16, Deut. 6:4-9, 11:13-21) in sheepskin scroll and put them into the square leather box with a leather belt. They usually brought two this kind of boxes and bound them upon the arm and the forehead respectively. The original meaning of this action is to remind them not to forget the words of God (See Deut. 6:6-8). “Their phylacteries” is a lace of blue which was put upon the fringe of borders of their garments and its original meaning is to remind them that they should keep the commandments of God (See Num. 15:38-39). Literal Meaning: the Pharisees purposely broaden the small leather box which takes the Scripture and enlarge the borders of their garments in order to attract attention. Common people only bind the box of scriptures when they pray, however, the Pharisees always bind them in the aim of letting others know their piety and gain others’ praise. Enlightenment in the Word: 1) Those who do only to be seen by others are the hypocrites and they want to have glory of men (See Matt. 6:1-2, 5, 16). 2) Religious believers like to show off themselves, denote money, bear witness, do service, preach and write books and many spiritual good works, perhaps the motives of them are to seek vain glory (See Pill. 2:3).

Matt. 23:6 “They love the best places at feasts, the best seats in the synagogues,” YLT: “they love also the chief couches in the supper, and the chief seats in the synagogues,” Spiritual Meaning: “they love the best places at feasts” symbolizes the status of the world; “the best seats in the synagogues” symbolizes spiritual status. Enlightenment in the Word: 1) The greatest temptation of leaders of the church is from their inner hearts------they like to be held high by others and show their importance in the multitudes. 2) Anyone who cares about titles and status in the church cannot service well. Matt. 23:7 “greetings in the marketplaces, and to be called by men, ‘Rabbi, Rabbi.'” YLT: “and the salutations in the market-places, and to be called by men, Rabbi, Rabbi.” Meaning of Words: “Rabbi”: my master, my teacher, my great one. Literal Meaning: “greetings in the marketplaces” means that they like to be flattered, honored and respected in the multitudes. “Be called by men, ‘Rabbi, Rabbi’” “Rabbi” is the honorific title for the class of teachers (See John. 1:38, 3:26) and usually the Jews call the scribes “Rabbi”.

Matt. 23:8 “But you, do not be called ‘Rabbi'; for One is your Teacher, the Christ, and you are all brethren.” YLT: “`And ye ye may not be called Rabbi, for one is your director the Christ, and all ye are brethren;” Enlightenment in the Word: 1) “One is” shows the sole respect of God and Christ and anyone else cannot be mentioned with Him in the same breath. 2) In the church, believers only have the diversities of gifts and operations (See 1Cor. 12:4-6). We do not have the distinctions of classes and we are all brothers (See Heb. 3:1, Rev. 1:9).

Matt. 23:9 “Do not call anyone on earth your father; for One is your Father, He who is in heaven.” YLT: “and ye may not call [any] your father on the earth, for one is your Father, who is in the heavens,” Literal Meaning: “do not call anyone on earth your Father,” “Father” is the fountainhead of life. Here it did not mean that we couldn’t call our own parents “father”. It meant that we should not treat men on earth as the fountainhead of spiritual life. “One is your Father, He who is in heaven.” It shows that only God Himself is the fountainhead of our spiritual life. Enlightenment in the Word: 1) To the believers whose spiritual lives are young, those whose spiritual lives are much maturer could have the heart of a father (See 1Thess. 2:11), however, they could not have the place of a father. 2) The most important is that no one can replace the place of the Father in heaven in the hearts of believers.

Matt. 23:10 “And do not be called teachers; for One is your Teacher, the Christ.” YLT: “nor may ye be called directors, for one is your director the Christ.” Meaning of Words: “teachers”: instructor, director, conductor, explainer, guide. The Background: at that time, the Jewish disciples of “teachers” should obey the teachers’ instructions concerning their every movement and every action. Literal Meaning: “do not be called teachers.” Rabbi, Father and teacher were honorific titles for the Jews to call the teachers (scribes) of the Law. Enlightenment in the Word: 1) Some of the clergy in Christianity like to be called “the Reverend” because of the vainglory. 2) Believers should not treat the commandments of men as doctrines to obey and we should hear “Him” (See Matt. 17:5). 3) Teachers of the New Testament (1Cor. 12:28, Eph. 4:11) help us to understand the Bible and know the will of God. We should not despise their prophecies, however, we should prove all things (See Thess. 5:20-21). 4) The teachings given by anyone else is external and objective. Only Christ who lives in us is our subjective teacher of our personal concern. 5) Believers only have one teacher and one Father. Our sole fountainhead is the Father in heaven and we are only instructed by one who is Christ; Father is the fountainhead and Christ is the way.

Matt. 23:11 “But he who is greatest among you shall be your servant.” YLT: “And the greater of you shall be your ministrant,” Meaning of Words: “servant”: deacon, minister, steward. Enlightenment in the Word: 1) The principle of the spiritual circles: the true “great”, disregarding of one’s appearance, status and titles, is the one who is able to do and serve (See Matt. 20:26-27). 2) The more one serves others in the church, the “greater” he is.

Matt. 23:12 “And whoever exalts himself will be humbled, and he who humbles himself will be exalted.” YLT: “and whoever shall exalt himself shall be humbled, and whoever shall humble himself shall be exalted.” Literal Meaning: “who humbles himself will be exalted” “Humble himself” indicates the modest attitude and it does not mean the self-abasement of one’s personality. Enlightenment in the Word: 1) “Whoever exalts himself will be humbled.” It is the track of the fall of Satan (See Is. 14:12-14); “who humbles himself will be exalted.” It is the way to gain glory of Christ. 2) The more one has been dealt with by cross, the more glory will he have. Conversely, the more one’s natural part is, the more will he be despised.

Matt. 23:13 “‘But woe to you, scribes and Pharisees, hypocrites! For you shut up the kingdom of heaven against men; for you neither go in yourselves, nor do you allow those who are entering to go in.” YLT: “`Wo to you, Scribes and Pharisees, hypocrites! because ye shut up the reign of the heavens before men, for ye do not go in, nor those going in do ye suffer to enter.” The Background: “hypocrites” In the original it means actors on stage who speak under masks so as to play an assumed character vividly. Their works and deeds on stage do not represent their “true personalities”. Literal Meaning: “woe” means that “they will receive just deserts of evildoing” and “how sorrowful and miserable it is”. “ For you shut up the kingdom of heaven against men.” It means that they hold back men from entering into the kingdom of heaven; “the kingdom of heaven” is the realm where the heaven reigns. The scribes and the Pharisees only pay attention to the earthly things and make the Jews not find the door (the door of the kingdom of heaven) to enter in. “ For you neither go in yourselves” means that: a) they themselves are unrighteous and stumble others; b) their teachings are wrong and therefore they mislead others. Spiritual Meaning: the appearance of religious believers does not accord with the reality of them. They purposely do not let others know their nature of corruption. “The kingdom of heaven” indicates the realm where the heaven reigns. Therefore “shut up the kingdom of heaven” means that do not let men live under the heavenly authority. They make men solely stress on vain ceremonies, letters and teachings, and do not make their hearts turn to the Lord (See 2Cor. 3:6, 16). Enlightenment in the Word: 1) On spiritual way, the moment one does not grow (“you neither go in yourselves”), he will hold back others from growing (“nor do you allow those who are entering to go in”). Spiritual leaders who walk “in front” should never be conservative and complacent and then shut up the door for others to receive grace because they themselves are at a standstill. 2) Religious leaders not only do not magnify the Lord themselves but also hold back others from listening to the words of the Lord simply. Once they meet the teachers of heresy who refuse to obey them, they excommunicate them in excuse of the so-called disobedience to the “delegation of authority”. This situation is often seen in the history of the church.

Matt. 23:14 “Woe to you, scribes and Pharisees, hypocrites! For you devour widows' houses, and for a pretense make long prayers. Therefore you will receive greater condemnation.” YLT: “`Wo to you, Scribes and Pharisees, hypocrites! because ye eat up the houses of the widows, and for a pretence make long prayers, because of this ye shall receive more abundant judgment.” Meaning of Words: “condemnation”: judgment, conviction. Literal Meaning: some hand-written scrolls do not have this verse. “For you devour widow’s houses” indicates that they extort money from the helpless and make them fall into the bind of debts. “For a pretence make long prayers” indicate that they make others fall into trouble, however, they themselves maintain the form of piety. Enlightenment in the Word: 1) “Widows” here indicate the believers who are helpless and easily bullied and oppressed (See 1Tim. 5:5, Zech. 7:10). Religious believers hold gain to be piety (See 1Tim. 6:5) and deceive the hearts of the simple by good works and fair speeches in order to serve their own belly (Rom. 16:18). 2) Religious believers like to have a spiritual form of piety and lead captive silly women (2Tim. 3:5-6) and make them be willing to dedicate money. These religious believers who are greedy for money have been erred from the faith and the Lord condemns that they will receive greater condemnation and they have pierced themselves through with many sorrows (1Tim. 6:10).

Matt. 23:15 “‘Woe to you, scribes and Pharisees, hypocrites! For you travel land and sea to win one proselyte, and when he is won, you make him twice as much a son of hell as yourselves.” YLT: “`Wo to you, Scribes and Pharisees, hypocrites! because ye go round the sea and the dry land to make one proselyte, and whenever it may happen ye make him a son of gehenna twofold more than yourselves.” Literal Meaning: “For you travel land and sea” indicates that they do missionary work to faraway overseas countries. “Win one proselyte” “Proselyte” indicates that the Gentiles are converted to Judaism and become a member of the group of the Jews. Its conditions include worshiping God, obeying the commandments of the Law, the male’s being circumcised, receiving the baptism to enter into Judaism, offering sacrifice and so on. “You make him a son of hell” Because those who follow the zealous Letterism and become one proselyte, they will be led to be more zealous in letters and cannot extricate themselves from the wrong faith. Consequently they will receive the everlasting punishment. “Twice as much” The evil nature of the blind followers and the evil they have learned from the hypocritical Pharisees make the dual evil. Enlightenment in the Word: 1) There is a strange phenomenon in the world that persons with impure faith of religious groups (such as Mormon Church and Jehovah’s witness) are more zealous to preach than Christians with pure faith. They indeed “travel land and sea” to countries in the world to “win one proselyte”. 2) Some Christians are zealous to preach the gospel, unfortunately they do this out of contention (See Pill. 1:17). They do so in order to enlarge their own “assembly” instead of for the witness of the Lord. Woe to this kind of people. 3) Religious believers only win one “proselyte”------to become a member of the man-made originations. They do not lead men to walk on the way of life and contrarily make men stress on letters which kill men (See 2Cor. 3:6) and consequently they both perish------“make him a son of hell”.

Matt. 23:16 “‘Woe to you, blind guides, who say, ‘Whoever swears by the temple, it is nothing; but whoever swears by the gold of the temple, he is obliged to perform it.'” YLT: “`Wo to you, blind guides, who are saying, Whoever may swear by the sanctuary, it is nothing, but whoever may swear by the gold of the sanctuary is debtor!” Meaning of Words: “temple”: sanctuary. Literal Meaning: “blind guides” “Blind” indicates that he himself is in darkness and is unable to see the correct way. However, he is confident that he is a guide of the blind, a light of them which are in darkness, an instructor of the foolish and a teacher of babes (Rom. 2:19-20) and therefore he likes to be lead others. The blind lead the blind, both shall fall into the ditch (See Matt. 15:14). “Whoever swears by the temple, it is nothing.” The scribes and the Pharisees in order to help the common people abandon oaths, taught the common people that there were two grades of oaths and whoever swears by the temple, it is nothing. “Whoever swears by the gold of the temple, he is obliged to perform it.” They held that “the gold of the temple” was more important than “the temple” and therefore whoever swears by the gold of the temple, he is obliged to perform it. “He is obliged to perform it” in the original means that “he is in debt”. Enlightenment in the Word: 1) Religious believers teach others with the sight of men and judge what kind of oath is effective with the purpose of finding excuse for their disobedience to oaths and shirking the responsibilities. 2) The principle that they have set up shows the condition that they transpose the order and despise God.

Matt. 23:17 “Fools and blind! For which is greater, the gold or the temple that sanctifies the gold?” YLT: “Fools and blind! for which [is] greater, the gold, or the sanctuary that is sanctifying the gold?” Literal Meaning: “for which is greater” The Lord meant that they did not know the original order and fundamentality of things. “The gold or the temple that sanctifies the gold?” “Sanctifies” means to “be separated to God”; the sanctification here is not the sanctification of nature (See Rom. 6:19) but the positional sanctification. Though the gold is valuable, if it is used beyond the temple, it is “common”. Only when it is used in the temple, the gold is sanctified and therefore the temple is greater than the gold. In other words, what sanctifies something is greater than the thing that has been sanctified. Enlightenment in the Word: 1) Religious believers do not know how to discern the importance and greatness and therefore the Lord judge them as “fools and blind”. 2) “Gold” could typify that one seeks to be spiritual. “Temple” typifies to build the church for a habitation of God (Eph. 2:21-22). Religious believers stress on their own pursuit and do not know that God’s will is to gain the church on earth. 3) If any spiritual person or person is not unto the church or used for the church, its value is limited.

Matt. 23:18 “And, ‘Whoever swears by the altar, it is nothing; but whoever swears by the gift that is on it, he is obliged to perform it.'” YLT: “`And, whoever may swear by the altar, it is nothing; but whoever may swear by the gift that is upon it is debtor!” Literal Meaning: “alter” indicates the sacrificial alter which is used to offer sacrifices; “gift” indicates ox, sheep, dove, etc. The scribes and the Pharisees hold that whoever swears by the alter, it is nothing and so that they do not need to perform it. However, whoever swears by the gift that is on it, he is obliged to perform it. “Is obliged to” in the original means “is in debt”.

Matt. 23:19 “Fools and blind! For which is greater, the gift or the altar that sanctifies the gift?” YLT: “Fools and blind! for which [is] greater, the gift, or the altar that is sanctifying the gift?” Literal Meaning: When a sheep is in the flocks of sheep and has not been separated to God, it is common. However, once it is separated to offer to the alter, it is holy and therefore the alter is greater. Enlightenment in the Word: 1) Religious believers lack spiritual insight (“fools and blind”) and therefore they do not know to value the things (such the alter and the temple) with heavenly value and on the contrary, they value the things (such as the gift and the gold) with earthly value. 2) If believers want to be useful in the hands of the Lord, they have to put themselves on the alter and let the cross of the Lord (the meaning of “the alter”) deal with their natural life more.

Matt. 23:20 “Therefore he who swears by the altar, swears by it and by all things on it.” YLT: “`He therefore who did swear by the altar, doth swear by it, and by all things on it;” Literal Meaning: this verse indicates that when men come to the alter to offer sacrifice and swear, they equally come to God to offer sacrifice and swear.

Matt. 23:21 “He who swears by the temple, swears by it and by Him who dwells in it.” YLT: “and he who did swear by the sanctuary, doth swear by it, and by Him who is dwelling in it;” Literal Meaning: this verse indicates that when men come to the temple to worship and swear, they equally come to God to worship Him and swear.

Matt. 23:22 “And he who swears by heaven, swears by the throne of God and by Him who sits on it.” YLT: “and he who did swear by the heaven, doth swear by the throne of God, and by Him who is sitting upon it.” Literal Meaning: the Lord corrects them that and no matter what kind of oath it is, it is swore by the throne of God and by Him who sits on it and therefore men could not violate oath. Here the Lord pointed out the wrongness of the scribes and the Pharisees. It did not mean that the Lord approved men to “swear”; in the final analysis, all men’s oaths are swore by God and therefore we should not swear at all (See Matt. 5:34-37).

Matt. 23:23 “‘Woe to you, scribes and Pharisees, hypocrites! For you pay tithe of mint and anise and cummin, and have neglected the weightier matters of the law: justice and mercy and faith. These you ought to have done, without leaving the others undone.” YLT: “`Wo to you, Scribes and Pharisees, hypocrites! because ye give tithe of the mint, and the dill, and the cumin, and did neglect the weightier things of the Law the judgment, and the kindness, and the faith; these it behoved [you] to do, and those not to neglect.” Meaning of Words: “justice”: judgment, righteous. Literal Meaning: “pay tithe of mint and anise and cummin” The scribes and the Pharisees stressed on tithe and they were even concerned about the small products in the field (See Lev. 27:30, Deut. 14:22). “Mint and anise and cummin” are the plants used to make medicine or flavor. “The weightier matters of the law: justice and mercy and faith.” The spirit of the Law could be divided into three items: being justice to oneself, being merciful to others, and being faithful to God (See Mic. 6:8). “ These you ought to have done, without leaving the others undone.” It indicates that “justice, mercy and faith” should be done, and “tithe” should not be left aside and neglected because of these things. This verse shows that the Pharisees only obeyed the least regulations of the Law such as the tithe (though these things should not be left undone), however, they neglected “the weightier matters of the Law: justice, mercy and faith” which should have been done. Enlightenment in the Word: 1) The Lord did not ask men to despise the tithe. He asked men to know the relative importance. 2) If believers only talk about justice, mercy and faith with their lips today and do not have actual actions and misunderstand that the tithe is not important, contrarily they are not as good as the Pharisees.

Matt. 23:24 “Blind guides, who strain out a gnat and swallow a camel!” YLT: “`Blind guides! who are straining out the gnat, and the camel are swallowing.” The Background: the Jews usually used a cloth to strain the wine before they drank in case they may touch or swallow something unclean. “The gnat and came” are unclean (See Lev. 11:4, 41); the former is a kind of very tiny insect and the latter is a large animal. In the Syrian which was used in the land of Palestine at that time, “gnat” and “camel” were very similar. Therefore the saying that “strain out a gnat and swallow a camel” existed to show that men haggle over insignificant things and ignore significant things. Literal Meaning: if there is a small gnat falls in the wine, they will try their best to strain it out. However, they do not feel unclean to swallow the large camel. The Lord blamed them that they did not discern the relative importance. Enlightenment in the Word: if believers only argue about some words and teachings of the Bible (such as the ways of “baptism’) and neglect the spiritual reality that the teachings involve (such as the “die and resurrect with the Lord together” that the baptism symbolizes), it is to strain out a gnat and swallow a camel.

Matt. 23:25 “‘Woe to you, scribes and Pharisees, hypocrites! For you cleanse the outside of the cup and dish, but inside they are full of extortion and self- indulgence.” YLT: “`Wo to you, Scribes and Pharisees, hypocrites! because ye make clean the outside of the cup and the plate, and within they are full of rapine and incontinence.” The Background: “you cleanse the outside of the cup and dish” The cup and dish which the Pharisees used in worship should be cleansed through ceremonial procedures. Literal Meaning: “but inside they are full of extortion and self-indulgence” Just like the vessels which are clean in the outside could be full of poisonous things, those who have been cleansed through ceremony may be full of extortion and self-indulgence. “Extortion” is related to the deceitfulness of the riches (See Matt. 13:22) and self-indulgence is the lust of the flesh (See 1John. 2:16); “extortion” indicates to oppress others in order to fulfill one’s selfish desire and “self-indulgence” indicates to indulge himself to fulfill his selfish desire. In this verse the Lord blamed them that they only stressed on the cleanness of letters (See Mark. 7:4) despite that inside they are dirty and unclean. Enlightenment in the Word: 1) Many people restrict their own behaviors before a big crowd (“cleanse the outside of the cup and the dish”) and show their lust to swallow others and indulge themselves when others are unaware (“inside they are full of extortion and self-indulgence”). 2) Religious believers have a form of godliness but deny the power of it (2Tim. 3:5).

Matt. 23:26 “Blind Pharisee, first cleanse the inside of the cup and dish, that the outside of them may be clean also.” YLT: “`Blind Pharisee! cleanse first the inside of the cup and the plate, that the outside of them also may become clean.” Enlightenment in the Word: 1) If we live in the spiritual reality, we should pay attention to deal with our inner intentions, and naturally we will bring forth good and pure words and deeds out of the hearts (See Matt. 12:35, 15:18-19). 2) The outside behaviors originate from the inside life------the more Christ has been informed in men (Gal. 4:19), the more the outside behaviors are able to magnify Christ (Pill. 1:20).

Matt. 23:27 “‘Woe to you, scribes and Pharisees, hypocrites! For you are like whitewashed tombs which indeed appear beautiful outwardly, but inside are full of dead men's bones and all uncleanness.” YLT: “`Wo to you, Scribes and Pharisees, hypocrites! because ye are like to whitewashed sepulchres, which outwardly indeed do appear beautiful, and within are full of bones of dead men, and of all uncleanness;” The Background: if the Jews step on the tomb, they held that they may be infected with the uncleanness of the dead and they were unclean according to the religious ceremony (See Lev. 21:1, Num. 19:16). Therefore the Jews painted the tombs in white and before the Passover every year, they whitewashed the tombs in the countryside as usual in order to discern for men easily (especially at night), lest they may be careless and defile themselves (See Luke. 11:44). Enlightenment in the Word: 1) Religious believers think in one way and behave in another. They are dead without lives in them. But they outside hide (“whitewash”) their dead situation (See Rev. 3:1). 2) The outside behaviors of religious believers are not out of lives, and therefore they appear beautiful outwardly. However, they are still unclean before God because God has perspective sight (See 1Cor. 2:10) and He is able to search reins and hearts (Ps. 7:9, Rev. 2:23).

Matt. 23:28 “Even so you also outwardly appear righteous to men, but inside you are full of hypocrisy and lawlessness.” YLT: “so also ye outwardly indeed do appear to men righteous, and within ye are full of hypocrisy and lawlessness.” Enlightenment in the Word: religious believers fear men instead of God (See Rom. 3:18). They are only concerned about their behaviors to men and the outward appearance instead of that before God and the inner part.

Matt. 23:29 “‘Woe to you, scribes and Pharisees, hypocrites! Because you build the tombs of the prophets and adorn the monuments of the righteous,” YLT: “`Wo to you, Scribes and Pharisees, hypocrites! because ye build the sepulchres of the prophets, and adorn the tombs of the righteous,” Literal Meaning: “build the tombs of the prophets and adorn the monuments of the righteous” indicates the behaviors of showing their respect towards the prophets and the righteous. “Prophets” are those who speak for God; “the righteous” are those who die for God.

Matt. 23:30 “and say, ‘If we had lived in the days of our fathers, we would not have been partakers with them in the blood of the prophets.'” YLT: “and say, If we had been in the days of our fathers, we would not have been partakers with them in the blood of the prophets.” Literal Meaning: they build the tombs of the prophets and the righteous whom their fathers had killed in order to show that they are different from their fathers. Enlightenment in the Word: the Pharisees respected the former prophets and could not bear the current prophets. Men in the religious circles usually hold high the dead ones, however, they despise the living ones.

Matt. 23:31 “‘Therefore you are witnesses against yourselves that you are sons of those who murdered the prophets.” YLT: “So that ye testify to yourselves, that ye are sons of them who did murder the prophets;” Literal Meaning: this verse shows that they are the clear proof for the saying that “like father, like son”.

Matt. 23:32 “Fill up, then, the measure of your fathers' guilt.” YLT: “and ye ye fill up the measure of your fathers.” Meaning of Words: “measure”: degree. Literal Meaning: this verse means that “you fulfill the evil which your forefathers had started to do” .The forefathers of the Jews committed all sorts of wickedness and their present leaders continue to do all kinds of evil and make the existing evil reach a climax.

Matt. 23:33 “Serpents, brood of vipers! How can you escape the condemnation of hell?” YLT: “`Serpents! brood of vipers! how may ye escape from the judgment of the gehenna?” Meaning of Words: “brood”: offspring. Literal Meaning: “serpents, brood of vipers!” It shows that their nature comes from the evil nature of Satan (See Matt. 3:7, 12:34); their teachings contain evil (Matt. 16:12). “How can you escape the condemnation of hell?” They are exactly like their forefathers and only know to condemn others and justify themselves. Therefore they cannot escape the wrath which God would show to their forefathers, i.e. the condemnation of hell.

Matt. 23:34 “Therefore, indeed, I send you prophets, wise men, and scribes: some of them you will kill and crucify, and some of them you will scourge in your synagogues and persecute from city to city,” YLT: “`Because of this, lo, I send to you prophets, and wise men, and scribes, and of them ye will kill and crucify, and of them ye will scourge in your synagogues, and will pursue from city to city;” Literal Meaning: here the Lord predicted that how the leaders of Judaism would persecute and kill all the apostles, prophets and teachers of the New Testament who are sent by the Lord (See Acts. 5:40, 8:1-3 and etc).

Matt. 23:35 “that on you may come all the righteous blood shed on the earth, from the blood of righteous Abel to the blood of Zechariah, son of Berechiah, whom you murdered between the temple and the altar.” YLT: “that on you may come all the righteous blood being poured out on the earth from the blood of Abel the righteous, unto the blood of Zacharias son of Barachias, whom ye slew between the sanctuary and the altar:” Literal Meaning: “from the blood of righteous Abel” “Abel” was the first righteous one who was killed (Gen. 4:8-11). “To the blood of Zechariah, son of Berechiah, whom you murdered between the temple and the alter.” There are two kinds of statements about the “Zechariah” here: a) It indicates Zechariah, the son of the priest Jehoiada and he was stoned by men in the temple of Jehovah (See 2Chron. 24:15, 20-22). The contraction of this statement is that the father of Zechariah was not “Berechiah”. Maybe “Berechiah” was another name of Jehoiada or Jehoiada was the grandfather of Zechariah because son also means the offspring in Hebrew. Those who held this statement believed that the Jewish arrangement of the Hebrew Bible started from Generation and ended in Chronicles. When the Judaists talk about “from Generation to the Chronicles”, it is just like Christians’ saying about “from Generation to Revelation” and this means the whole Bible. Therefore, “from Abel in Generation to Zechariah in Chronicles” means to summarize all the martyrs of the Old Testament. b) It indicates Zechariah, the son of Berechiah (See Zech. 1:1). According to time, this Zechariah was the last prophet recorded in the Bible after the kingdom of Israel had been conquered and carried captive. However, the Old Testament did not record that he was killed and therefore it is uncertain that the Lord mentioned him here. If the Lord mentioned him here, it means the first martyr (Abel) and the last one (Zechariah) in the Old Testament and therefore it also means all the martyrs of the Old Testament.

Matt. 23:36 “Assuredly, I say to you, all these things will come upon this generation.” YLT: “verily I say to you, all these things shall come upon this generation.” Literal Meaning: it should mean that the sin of the blood of all the prophets and the righteous would come on the leaders of Judaism. God would let them take on the condemnation which their forefathers should take on and this was fulfilled in A.D. 70 as expected.

Matt. 23:37 “‘O Jerusalem, Jerusalem, the one who kills the prophets and stones those who are sent to her! How often I wanted to gather your children together, as a hen gathers her chicks under her wings, but you were not willing!” YLT: “`Jerusalem, Jerusalem, that art killing the prophets, and stoning those sent unto thee, how often did I will to gather thy children together, as a hen doth gather her own chickens under the wings, and ye did not will.” Literal Meaning: “stones those who are sent to her!” Usually the Jews stone four kinds of men to death: a) those who serve other gods (See Deut. 17:5, 7); b) anyone who has a wizard (See Lev. 20:27); c) those who commit adultery (See Deut. 22:22, John. 8:5); d) the false prophets (See John. 8:33, 11:8). Here it must indicate that the apostles who had been sent by the Lord were misunderstood as false prophets by Judaists (See Matt. 21:35) and therefore they were stoned to death by them. “How often I wanted to gather your children together.” “How often” shows that Jesus had visited Jerusalem many times (See John. 2:13, 5:1, 7:10 and etc); “Your children” means “your sons” in the original, and it indicates the inhabitants of Jerusalem and it also indicates believers in Judaism. “ As a hen gathers her chicks under her wings” Most of religious believers rebel the will of God because of their ignorance. God bears with them again and again and contrarily He, with the mood as hens with outstretched wings (See Is. 31:5), wants to gather them to trust under the shadow of His wings (Ps. 36:7) in order that they may obtain His protection. “But you were not willing.” “You” indicates the leaders of Judaism. The Lord is “willing” many times, unfortunately, they keep “unwilling” all the time. How hard were their hearts. Spiritual Meaning: “Jerusalem” is the holy city of Judaism and it represents the inner circle of religious organizations. Anything that has the appearance of worshiping God and lacks the reality of it is religion. All the leaders and groups of religion in the world strangle God’s words (“killed the prophets”) and persecute the servants who are really of God (“stones those who are sent to her”). Enlightenment in the Word: 1) Leaders of the church who lack spiritual knowledge and experience will become the ones who block the fulfillment of the will of God. 2) The great harm the leaders may bring to the will of God is that they strangle God’s words, close God’s revelations and put the witnesses who have been entrusted to spread God’s message to death. 3) The Lord “is willing many times” and men keep “unwilling” all the time. How difficult it is for the heart of heaven to receive the response of hearts on earth.

Matt. 23:38 “See! Your house is left to you desolate;” YLT: “Lo, left desolate to you is your house;” Literal Meaning: “your house is left to you desolate” The “house” here and “temple” are the same word in the original (See Matt. 21:13). It was originally “my temple” and now it became “your house” because Judaism made it “the den of thieves”. “Desolate” predicted that God would abandon the city of Jerusalem and the Holy Temple (See Matt. 24:2, Jer. 12:7, Ezek. 11:23); the Lord here predicted again that this would be fulfilled in A.D. 70. “Left to you” means that the Lord gave them up and let them walk in their own counsels (See Ps. 81:12). Enlightenment in the Word: our individual body or the corporate believers (the church) is the temple of God (1Cor. 6:19, Eph. 2:21), however, if we could not let Him settle down and dwell in, we will become desolate and the desolation is of no use.

Matt. 23:39 “for I say to you, you shall see Me no more till you say, ‘Blessed is He who comes in the name of the LORD!’’” YLT: “for I say to you, ye may not see me henceforth, till ye may say, Blessed [is] he who is coming in the name of the Lord.’ Literal Meaning: “you shall see Me no more” It predicts that Jesus will depart from this world. “Till you say, ‘blessed is He who comes in the name of the LORD’” Here it predicts that when Christ comes for the second time, the Jews will admit that He is the Messiah. Here it also implies that when the Lord comes back, the whole house of Israel will repent and be saved (See Rom. 11:26, Ps. 118:24-26). Enlightenment in the Word: 1) No matter the individual believer or the church, if one does not magnify the name of the Lord (“Blessed is He who comes in the name of the LORD”), he will lose the presence of the Lord (“shall see Me no more”). However, once one is willing to repent and turn to the Lord, he will still receive the Lord’s blessing. 2) If men reject the Lord, they will be rejected by the Lord. If men respect the Lord, they will be respected by the Lord.

The King’s Judgments towards Religious Believers I. The king’s judgment towards religious believers: A. They say and do not do (v.1-4). B. They like to show off themselves and like best seats and honorific titles (v.5- 12). II. The eight disasters of religious believers: A. The first disaster------for they neither go in themselves nor allow those who are entering to go in (v.13). B. The second disaster------for they devour widows’ houses (v.14). C. The third disaster------for they win one proselyte and when he is won, they make him twice as much a son of hell as themselves (v.15). D. The fourth disaster------for they are blind guides and put the incidental before the fundamental (v.16-22). E. The fifth disaster------for they stand on points and ignore the fundamental things (v.23-24). F. The sixth disaster------for they stress on the outside cleanness and the inside they are unclean (v.25-26). G. The seventh disaster------for they have a name that they live, and are dead (v.27-28). H. The eighth disaster------for they remember the dead prophets and kill the living prophets (v.29-36). III. The king’s judgments towards religious originations: A. It will be rejected by the Lord (v.37-39). B. It will be demolished by men (Matt. 24:1-2).

The mistakes of religious circles which the Pharisees stand for I. Their deeds do not accord with their words------they say and do not do (v.1-4). II. They seek vain glory------they like to show off and like best seats and honorific titles (v.5-12). III. They obstruct the way of grace------they neither go in themselves nor allow those who are entering to go in (v.13). IV. They bully the weak members------they devour widows’ houses (v.14). V. They mislead others------they win one proselyte and when he is won, they make him twice as much a son of hell as themselves (v.15). VI. They do not have spiritual sight------they do not know the relative importance of things (v.16-22). VII. They stick to outside behaviors and neglect the inner reality------they pay the tithe and neglect the justice, mercy and faith (v.23-24). VIII. They stick to the outward behaviors and neglect the inside nature------they cleanse the outside of the cup and dish, but inside they are full of extortion and self-indulgence. (v.25-26). IX. They stick to the outward beautifulness and neglect the inner uncleanness------they are like whitewashed tombs (v.27-28). X. They quench God’s revelations-----they murdered prophets (v.29-36). XI. They are unwilling to repent and turn to God------they disregard God’s grace and bring about the judgment (v.37-39). Matthew Chapter Twenty-four

The Lord’s Speech Concerning Things that would Take Place in Future I. The speech to the Jews the elect: A. The prophecy that the temple will be thrown down (v.1-2). B. The prophecies before the coming of the end of the age (v.3-14). C. The prophecy concerning the Great Tribulation (v.15-28). D. The prophecy concerning the coming of the Son of Man (v.29-31). II. The speech to believers of the New Testament: A. Knowing that the Lord in near from the parable of the fig tree (v.32-35). B. As the days of Noah were, so also will the coming of the Son of Man be (v.36-44). C. When the Lord comes, He will punish evil servants (v.45-51).

Matt. 24:1 “Then Jesus went out and departed from the temple, and His disciples came up to show Him the buildings of the temple.” YLT: “And having gone forth, Jesus departed from the temple, and his disciples came near to show him the buildings of the temple,” The Background: after the temple which was rebuilt by Zerubbabel (See Ezra. 3:8) was thrown down, “the temple” here refers to the one that was rebuilt again around B.C. 20 because Herod the Great wanted to please the Jews. When the Lord Jesus was on earth, it had been built for forty-six years (See John. 2:20) and it still had not been finished. According to the records of the Jewish historian Joseph, the whole temple was finished in A.D. 64. This temple was magnificent and grand. Each marble of the temple extends more than 3 meters and there were colossal golden decorations in it. Literal Meaning: “Jesus went out and departed from the temple” This happened after He declared that “your house is left to you desolate” (See Matt. 23:38). He showed that He had rejected this temple with action just like glorious God departed from the Holy Temple (See Ezek. 9:3, 10:4, 11:23). “The temple” here indicates the sacred place. “Show Him the buildings of the temple.” The disciples may want the Lord to appreciate the magnificence and beautifulness of the temple with them together. Enlightenment in the Word: 1) “Jesus departed from the temple.” When the children of God reject the Lord, the Lord departs from them and He is not with them. 2) Today many so-called “church” only have magnificent, tall and grand appearance (See Mark. 13:1), however, the Lord is not in them (“Jesus departed from the temple”). 3) “The disciples showed Him the buildings of the temple” What they care about in their hearts is the temporal things which are seen with eyes instead of the eternal glory which are not seen (See 2Cor. 4:17-18). 4) Do we boasts of our “temple”------such as numerous people, thriving work, and beautiful buildings, or “the Lord” in the temple?

Matt. 24:2 “And Jesus said to them, ‘Do you not see all these things? Assuredly, I say to you, not one stone shall be left here upon another, that shall not be thrown down.’” YLT: “and Jesus said to them, `Do ye not see all these? verily I say to you, There may not be left here a stone upon a stone, that shall not be thrown down.’” Literal Meaning: “do you not see all these things?” The Lord knew what was in His disciples. “Assuredly, I say to you…shall be…” Here the Lord Jesus predicted again the thing that would be fulfilled in A.D. 70 when the Holy City was destructed and the Holy Temple was burnt down. The Lord predicted this again and again (See Matt. 21:41, 22:7) in order to show that this will be fulfilled rapidly. “Not one stone shall be left here upon another.” It was fully fulfilled in A.D.70 literally. At that time, the Romans, under the lead of Titus, completely destructed Jerusalem and the buildings of the temple and they even unclenched the stones to obtain the gold foil which had been melted into the stones from the roof of the temple when it was burnt up. Someone said that some stones had not been moved at that time. Till the dynasty of the Empire Julian, he moved the stones that had been left because he wanted to rebuild the temple (this makes the Lord’s prophesy be completely fulfilled), however, his plan of rebuilding the temple was given up halfway. Spiritual Meaning: “the temple” typifies the church; “stones” typify believers (See Eph. 2:20-22, 1Pet. 2:5). Enlightenment in the Word: 1) No matter how beautiful and civilized the world is in men’s physical eyes, all the elements shall melt with fervent heat in the spiritual eyes (See 2Pet. 3:12). 2) The glory of the temple is not gold, silver, or gem but the presence of the Lord. Since the church is God’s temple, we should pay attention to God’s presence more than the outward large scale. 3) The church that has thriving appearance and does not have the presence of the Lord will fall apart sooner or later and members of the church could not get along with each other (“not one stone shall be left here upon another”) because the Lord allows this kind of church to be “destructed” by men’s hands. 4) Natural men (stones) cannot accompany with each other and be built together and therefore if our natural lives have not been destructed, we can neither let the Lord have position in us nor have the true building.

Matt. 24:3 “Now as He sat on the Mount of Olives, the disciples came to Him privately, saying, ‘Tell us, when will these things be? And what will be the sign of Your coming, and of the end of the age?’” YLT: “And when he is sitting on the mount of the Olives, the disciples came near to him by himself, saying, `Tell us, when shall these be? and what [is] the sign of thy presence, and of the full end of the age?’” Meaning of Words: “coming”: a being near, presence and advent (parousia, it includes the meaning of the continuing process); “sign”: miracle, token, wonder. Literal Meaning: “He sat on the Mount of Olives” “The Mount of Olives” is located in the outside of the Brook Cedron on the east of Jerusalem. It is a ridge of about two kilometers and the lay of it is a bit higher than that of Jerusalem. “What will be the sign of Your coming, and of the end of the age?” According to the foresight of modern times, the questions of the disciples could be divided into three: a) when will be these things? “These things” indicates prophecies said by the Lord towards Jerusalem and the Holy Temple (See Matt. 23:32-24:2); b) what will be the sign of Your coming, i.e. the time the Lord comes back for a second time? c) what will be e sign of the end of the age, i.e. the completion of this age? In the hearts of disciples at that time, they obviously held that these three things would happen at the same time and therefore they asked them together. However, the Lord mentioned these three things together in His answer probably because the destruction of Jerusalem and the Holy Temple and the disasters that are about to take place in the Holy land are the preludes and typifications to the things that would take place in the last day when the Lord comes back. Enlightenment in the Word: 1) Christ’s coming will bring us His everlasting presence. 2) If believers want to receive the vision of the last day from the Lord, they have to climb the high mountain and come to Him. 3) Every time we come to hidden places (“the disciples came to Him, privately”), draw near to Christ who had been risen and taken into heaven and now sits on the throne (“Jesus sat on the Mountain of Olive”) and have imitate fellowship with Him, we will receive the Lord’s abundant words and revelations (“tell us”).

Matt. 24:4 “And Jesus answered and said to them: ‘Take heed that no one deceives you.” YLT: “And Jesus answering said to them, `Take heed that no one may lead you astray,” Meaning of Words: “deceive”: be out of the way, cheat. Literal Meaning: “take heed that no one deceives you.” “Deceive” indicates to make it difficult to discern what is true or false with deceitful means and therefore we should take heed of it. Enlightenment in the Word: 1) It is good for us to hold on the cautious attitude towards others’ speeches concerning Christ. 2) All the prophecies of the Bible, as a lamp that shines in a dark place (2Pet. 1:19), provide us light, and let us not be deceived. Therefore if we do not want to be deceived, we should pay attention to prophecies and be cautious and should not confuse right and wrong.

Matt. 24:5 “For many will come in My name, saying, ‘I am the Christ,' and will deceive many.” YLT: “for many shall come in my name, saying, I am the Christ, and they shall lead many astray,” Literal Meaning: “many will come in My name, saying, ‘I am the Christ.’” indicates those who call themselves Christ. The Lord’s words show that the appearance of false christ is the sign of the destruction of the temple. The Jewish historian Joseph recorded that during forty years after the Lord died and rose again to Jerusalem was destructed, several false christs came forth and they drew together a group of henchmen. Note that the phenomenon of false christs continues to take place in two thousand years and it becomes increasingly intense. Enlightenment in the Word: 1) One of the signs of the last day is that men like to promote themselves with Christ. However, Christ is the spiritual reality instead of the flag. 2) Anyone who calls himself Christ is actually false. Some deceivers do not pronounce that he is Christ and they mislead others to regard him as Christ unconsciously.

Matt. 24:6 “And you will hear of wars and rumors of wars. See that you are not troubled; for all these things must come to pass, but the end is not yet.” YLT: “and ye shall begin to hear of wars, and reports of wars; see, be not troubled, for it behoveth all [these] to come to pass, but the end is not yet.” Meaning of Words: “end”: final, conclusion. The Background: “rumors of wars” When Matthew was writing this book, the rumor that the Roman Cavalry was willing to suppress was widely reported. Literal Meaning: “you will hear of wars and rumors of wards” This is the second sign before the temple was destructed. After the Lord was dead, the rumor that wars were going to take place made men scared and jittery. “You are not troubled.” It indicates that “being troubled” is of no help and we should be prepared at all times to face these things. “For all these things must come to pass.” It is the reason to “be not troubled”. Since wars are unavoidable, “being troubled” is of no help. “But the end is not yet.” “End” indicates “the end of the age” (See v.3), i.e. the Great Tribulation of the three and a half years (See Rev. 11:2).

Matt. 24:7 “For nation will rise against nation, and kingdom against kingdom. And there will be famines, pestilences, and earthquakes in various places.” YLT: “`For nation shall rise against nation, and kingdom against kingdom, and there shall be famines, and pestilences, and earthquakes, in divers places;” Literal Meaning: “nation will rise against nation, and kingdom against kingdom.” “Nation will rise against nation” indicates wars between nations and tribes and villages; “kingdom against kingdom” indicates international wars. From the time when the Lord was taken up into heaven to now, wars take place incessantly from ages and from generations. “There will be famines, pestilences, and earthquakes in various places.” Wars always bring in famines. In all ages earthquakes increase unceasingly and earthquakes are about to become more serious in the end of the age (See Rev. 6:12, 8:5, 11:13, 19; 16:18). Spiritual Meaning: “nation will rise against nation” symbolizes that the earthly people would dispute with the heavenly people. “Kingdom against kingdom” symbolizes that the kingdom of Satan is against the kingdom of God. “ There will be famines, pestilences, and earthquakes in various places.” “Famines” symbolizes that the lack of spiritual food in all places does not make God’s people be full; “earthquakes” symbolizes that all things beyond God shall be removed (See Heb. 12:27).

Matt. 24:8 “All these are the beginning of sorrows.” YLT: “and all these [are] the beginning of sorrows;” Meaning of Words: “sorrows”: throes. The Background: when a woman gives birth to a child, she must have intermittent throes. When the intermission between throes becomes shorter and shorter, the degree of it becomes more and more serious. Literal Meaning: this verse shows that after the Lord was dead, the tribulations which Israel suffered in the Holy Land are only the beginning of sorrows, just like a woman went through sorrows. The truly fearful “Great Tribulation” comes later. Moreover, before the coming of the Great Tribulation, the sorrows they suffer will become more and more serious. Enlightenment in the Word: 1) God allows tribulations to happen to us for birth instead of destruction. It does not make us be desperate but give us hope. 2) Wars, famines and earthquakes all bring men tribulations of the flesh, however, these tribulations are sorrows and these will give birth to a child and finally these will bring men joy (See John. 16:21). 3) God’s will is to have many sons (See Gal. 3:26, Heb. 2:10) to be manifestations of glory of His son Christ, therefore all the tribulations are used by God to build the church of His Son.

Matt. 24:9 “‘Then they will deliver you up to tribulation and kill you, and you will be hated by all nations for My name's sake.” YLT: “then they shall deliver you up to tribulation, and shall kill you, and ye shall be hated by all the nations because of my name;” Meaning of Words: “deliver up”: cast. Literal Meaning: “then they will deliver you up to tribulation.” “Then” indicates in the beginning of sorrows; “you” indicates the Lord’s disciples. They were both Jewish and believers and therefore “sorrows” must be related to both the Jews and believers of the New Testament. “You will be hated by all nations for My name’s sake.” “All nations” indicate the Gentiles who are unbelievers. Both the Jews and the Gentile believers will be hated (See Matt. 10:22), persecuted (See Matt. 5:11) and killed by unbelievers for the Lord’s name’s sake. Enlightenment in the Word: all tribulations that we are about to suffer are added by “men” besides natural disasters (See v.7). It is truly tribulation upon tribulation and trouble upon trouble.

Matt. 24:10 “And then many will be offended, will betray one another, and will hate one another.” YLT: “and then shall many be stumbled, and they shall deliver up one another, and shall hate one another.” Literal Meaning: here the offense, betray and hatred are certain outcome of tribulations and persecution (See Matt. 10:36; 13:21; Mark. 13:12-13; Luke. 21:16; John. 16:1-2). Enlightenment in the Word: 1) Because they are unwilling to suffer pain and death many believers are willing to apostatize (“be offended”) and betray brothers and sisters (“betray one another, and hate one another”) in order to preserve themselves. 2) Believers should love one another, however, they may change to “betray one another and hate one another”.

Matt. 24:11 “Then many false prophets will rise up and deceive many.” YLT: “`And many false prophets shall arise, and shall lead many astray;” Enlightenment in the Word: 1) The Lord said that many would be deceived again and again, showing that deceit is a common fact in the Church History (See 1Tim. 4:1, 2Tim. 3:13, 2Pet. 2:1). 2) The deceit of false prophets is to make men misunderstand that what they say are God’s words. There is no doubt that we should not despise prophecies, however, what’s essential is that we should prove all things (See 1Thess. 5:20- 21).

Matt. 24:12 “And because lawlessness will abound, the love of many will grow cold.” YLT: “and because of the abounding of the lawlessness, the love of the many shall become cold;” Literal Meaning: “because lawlessness will abound” “Lawlessness” indicates the unruly things and things that are against the will of God. It indicates that lawlessness happens not only in the world but also in the church. This is the result of deceit of false prophets. “Lawlessness” will become more and more. “ The love of many will grow cold.” Once the “lawlessness” abounds, the “love” of many believers may be hurt and then they will grow cold. Enlightenment in the Word: 1) “Love” and “Lawlessness” cannot co-exist. If one wants to have more love, he has to stand aloof from lawless environments. 2) The church is the lamp to bear witness to Christ (Rev. 1:20). And the most important testimony of the church is the first love. Once the first love is lost, it also loses its value of its existence as a lamp (See Rev. 2:4-5). 3) The church in Philadelphia (it means “brotherly love” in the original) is the one where brothers love one another and therefore they are kept from the hour of temptation, which shall come upon all the world, to try them that dwell upon the earth (See Rev. 3:10), showing that “love” is the best equipment to withstand tribulations.

Matt. 24:13 “But he who endures to the end shall be saved.” YLT: “but he who did endure to the end, he shall be saved;” Literal Meaning: “be saved” does not mean to receive the redemption but to be delivered from tribulations and enter into the kingdom (See Acts. 27:20, 44; Ps. 80:3, 7, 19; Jer. 23:6, 30:7). In the last period of the Great Tribulation, the Lord Jesus will save those who are of Him out of the tribulations. The only way to be saved is to “endure to the end” which means that hold fast what you have in the lawless environment (See Rev. 3:8-11). Enlightenment in the Word: 1) Through many tribulations, we must enter into the kingdom of God. However, since we have the hope of kingdom, we should endure in tribulations. 2) Believers are fellow-partakers in the tribulations and kingdom and patience of Jesus (Rev. 1:9).

Matt. 24:14 “And this gospel of the kingdom will be preached in all the world as a witness to all the nations, and then the end will come.” YLT: “and this good news of the reign shall be proclaimed in all the world, for a testimony to all the nations; and then shall the end arrive.” Literal Meaning: “this gospel of the kingdom” have the same nature of gospel with “the gospel of grace” (See Acts. 20:24). And the emphases of them are different. “The gospel of grace” stresses on men’s sins and God’s redemption and the aim of this gospel is to bring men to believe in the Lord and receive the forgiveness of sins. “The gospel of the kingdom” stresses on men’s obedience and God’s power. The aim of this gospel is to lead men to repent and be under His authority. Though these two kinds of gospels are different in wording, actually they are two sides of one. The salvation which makes men have everlasting life actually makes men to enter the kingdom of God and receive the heavenly governance of God. “ Will be preached in all the world as a witness to all the nations.” “All the world” indicate the whole habitable earth. “All the nations” indicate all the unbelievers (especially the Gentile unbelievers). “As a witness” is preaching the glad tidings, however, it is preaching not only by words but also by manifestation of behaviors (See Pill. 1:27). “Then the end will come.” “The end” indicates “the end of the age” (See v.3, 6). It is the prerequisite to end this age that glad tidings shall be preached in all the world. In another words, preaching glad tidings to every corner of the world will speed up the coming of the end. Enlightenment in the Word: 1) If children of God do not work with Him to bear witness to the kingdom and fight against this world, God would rather delay ending this world than end it quickly. 2) The Lord wants believers to work with Him to promote the ending of this age and the second coming of the Lord. Therefore the Lord appointed believers to go and preach everywhere to the end of the earth (See Matt. 28:19; Mark. 16:20; Acts. 1:8). 3) Preaching glad tidings is first and then judgments come. God gives men enough chance to receive grace and then look into one’s attitude towards grace. Anyone who is unable to sympathize or care about others is unworthy to condemn others.

Matt. 24:15 “‘Therefore when you see the ‘abomination of desolation,' spoken of by Daniel the prophet, standing in the holy place" (whoever reads, let him understand),” YLT: “`Whenever, therefore, ye may see the abomination of the desolation, that was spoken of through Daniel the prophet, standing in the holy place (whoever is reading let him observe)” Meaning of Words: “desolation”: make it desolate, make it waste; “abomination”: the abominable things, disgusting things. Literal Meaning: “spoken of by Daniel the prophet” It is quoted from Dan. 11:31. It originally means that the Greek King Antiochus IV (namely Epiphanes) who invaded Palestine and overturned Jerusalem in the time between two testaments. He set up the altar of heresy in the Holy Temple in B.C.168. The Lord here purposely used this to predict that: a) the thing that would take place in A.D.70; b) the conditions that will come forth at the last day. “See the ‘abomination of desolation’, standing in the holy place.” “Desolation” indicates the antichrist (See Dan. 9:27); “abomination” indicates idols (See Deut. 29:17); “the holy place” indicates sanctuary in the temple (See Ps. 68:35, Ezek. 7:24). This sentence typified the presumptuous things the heathens had done in the Holy Temple when the Holy City was occupied in A.D.70 on one hand. On the other, it also typified the “apostasy” and antichrist at the last day (See 2Thess. 2:3-12). According to the prophecies in the Bible, in the three and a half years of the Great Tribulation, the image of antichrist (See Rev. 13:14-15) will be set up in the Holy Temple and this will become a sign of ending this age. “Whoever reads, let him understand.” When Matthew wrote this book, it was close to A.D.70, he could not protest who the “abomination of desolation” was. Therefore he added this sentence in parenthesis in order to remind readers to notice its hidden meaning when reading this prophecy. Enlightenment in the Word: 1) Before the Lord comes back, the “abominable” things will be manifested in the church such as adultery, apostasy, antichrist and etc. 2) God is a jealousy God (Exod. 20:5). Where there are idols, there the wrath of God would befall. He would rather let the Holy Temple (the church) be destructed than let it be profaned. 3) This verse especially notes that “whoever reads, let him understand” in order to remind believers it is possible that the throne of Satan dwells in the church (See Rev. 2:13).

Matt. 24:16 “‘then let those who are in Judea flee to the mountains.” YLT: “then those in Judea let them flee to the mounts;” Literal Meaning: when suffering persecutions, God’s people are supposed to “flee” instead of resisting (See Matt. 10:23, Rev. 12:6). “The mountains” are easy to hide themselves. According to the report of the early church, before Jerusalem was occupied, the disciples fled to the city of Piera at the foot of mountains and on the east of Jordan River. Spiritual Meaning: “flee to the mountains” symbolizes to pay price to live in spiritual realm. Enlightenment in the Word: 1) Once the worship of idols (including the worship of spiritual Giants) appears in the church, believers are supposed to flee and come out from among them quickly (See 2Cor. 6:17). 2) If believers want to escape the Great Tribulations at the last day, the best way is to pay price to seek to reach high spiritual realm (“flee to the mountains”) and then will be raptured by the Lord (See v.40-41).

Matt. 24:17 “Let him who is on the housetop not go down to take anything out of his house.” YLT: “he on the house-top let him not come down to take up any thing out of his house;” The Background: the houses of the ancient Jews were terraces and there were the outside ladders to climb to the housetop. Literal Meaning: “on the housetop” “housetop” indicates the roof and it is outside of the house. “ Not go down to take anything out of his house.” It means that do not go down from the outside ladder to take things. Spiritual Meaning: “on the housetop” symbolizes those who have reached the heavenly realm; “anything out of his house” symbolizes the worldly and material things. Enlightenment in the Word: Every believer who already has got some spiritual attainments (“on the housetop”) should take care and avoid being dragged by earthly things (“go down to take anything out of his house”).

Matt. 24:18 “And let him who is in the field not go back to get his clothes.” YLT: “and he in the field let him not turn back to take his garments.” Meaning of Words: “clothes”: robe. Spiritual Meaning: “in the field” symbolizes bondmen who serve the Lord (See Luke. 17:7); “clothes” symbolizes estimation before men. Enlightenment in the Word: 1) The true servants of the Lord (“in the field”) regard the will of God as the most important in all circumstances and should not merely take care of others’ feelings towards us (“go back to get his clothes”). 2) Those who love the Lord with pure hearts (“in the field”) should not go back to their former lives (“go back to get his clothes”).

Matt. 24:19 “But woe to those who are pregnant and to those who are nursing babies in those days!” YLT: “`And wo to those with child, and to those giving suck in those days;” Literal Meaning: “woe to those who are pregnant and to those who are nursing babies” because they are tied by the leg and there’s not enough time for them to flee. Spiritual Meaning: “who are pregnant” symbolize those whose lusts have conceived; “who are nursing babies” symbolize those who have care of the flesh.

Matt. 24:20 “And pray that your flight may not be in winter or on the Sabbath.” YLT: “and pray ye that your flight may not be in winter, nor on a sabbath;” Literal Meaning: “not be in winter or on that Sabbath.” “Winter” is the season of rain and snow. The road is either blocked by snow or muddy and it is difficult to walk. Men are not allowed to go out and take a long journey on the “Sabbath”. They are restrained and hindered from fleeing. The “Sabbath” in this verse proves that this passage was said to the Jews even more. Spiritual Meaning: “winter” symbolizes the abnormal spiritual state which is dried-up and dead. “Sabbath” symbolizes to obstinately cling to letters and regulations. Believers under this kind of situation are unable to flee and haven’t realized that they should flee. Matt. 24:21 “For then there will be great tribulation, such as has not been since the beginning of the world until this time, no, nor ever shall be.” YLT: “for there shall be then great tribulation, such as was not from the beginning of the world till now, no, nor may be.” Literal Meaning: this verse predicts the degree of the Great Tribulation because it is unprecedented and unrepeatable (See Joel. 2:2; Dan. 12:1). Since it is unimaginable by men, the word “great” is used to describe its terribleness. According to the records of the Jewish history, about a million Jews had been killed in the case in A.D.70 and most of which were crucified. About two millions Jews were sold into slavery and they drank the cup of bitterness and sorrow to dregs and they were even dead because of this. However, this situation could not catch up with the greatness of the Great Tribulation at the last day.

Matt. 24:22 “And unless those days were shortened, no flesh would be saved; but for the elect's sake those days will be shortened.” YLT: “And if those days were not shortened, no flesh would have been saved; but because of the chosen, shall those days be shortened.” Literal Meaning: “the elect” indicates the Jews and they are people who are elected by God. This verse predicts the time of the Great Tribulation. Because unless those days were shortened, no flesh would be saved, God limits the time of tribulations to three and a half years, i.e. forty-two months or one thousand two hundred and sixty days (See Dan. 9:27; Rev. 13:5; 12:6). Enlightenment in the Word: God is still merciful in His severity (See Rom. 11:22).

Matt. 24:23 “‘Then if anyone says to you, ‘Look, here is the Christ!' or ‘There!' do not believe it.” YLT: “`Then if any one may say to you, Lo, here [is] the Christ! or here! ye may not believe;” Literal Meaning: “then” indicates the three and a half years of the end of the age, i.e. the time of the Great Tribulation. “ Here is the Christ…there.” “Here” and “there” both indicate some certain places, showing that the Christ they spoke of rose on earth (characters of the earth) instead of appearing in heaven (See v.30). Enlightenment in the Word: 1) Today anyone who calls himself Christ who was born in the world must be the false Christ undoubtedly. 2) The Lord does not want us to listen to and trust men’s words because He is near us, even in our mouth and in our hearts (See Rom. 10:8). 3) The coming of the Lord Christ is not shown to a small part of people, but to be seen by all the people (See v.30). 4) Christ is exceeding and He fills all in all and He will never be limited by men.

Matt. 24:24 “For false christs and false prophets will rise and show great signs and wonders to deceive, if possible, even the elect.” YLT: “for there shall arise false Christs, and false prophets, and they shall give great signs and wonders, so as to lead astray, if possible, also the chosen.” Literal Meaning: “because false christs and false prophets” The plural shows that the number is more than one. “Show great signs and wonders” The lawless ones, after the working of evil spirits, and therefore they could do various kinds of powerful words and signs and lying wonders (See 2Thess. 2:9). “ Even the elect” “The elect” indicate the Jews (See Is. 65:9; Rom. 10:21; 11:28). Enlightenment in the Word: 1) The false christs and false prophets not only deceive the Gentile unbelievers, but also it is possible that they may deceive believers. 2) Satan and its subordinators also do sings and miracles and therefore Christians should not believe that they are sent by God easily because they can do great signs.

Matt. 24:25 “See, I have told you beforehand.” YLT: “Lo, I did tell you beforehand.” Literal Meaning: the Lord here tells us beforehand for the purpose of reminding us to take care when encountering this kind of things. We should not misunderstand that they are from God because they are able to do great signs and wonders.

Matt. 24:26 “‘Therefore if they say to you, ‘Look, He is in the desert!' do not go out; or ‘Look, He is in the inner rooms!' do not believe it.” YLT: “`If therefore they may say to you, Lo, in the wilderness he is, ye may not go forth; lo, in the inner chambers, ye may not believe;” Meaning of Words: “inner rooms”: storehouses. Literal Meaning: “He is in the desert!” It indicates that He hides in the rural and underpopulated place. “He is in the inner rooms!” It indicates that He hides in secret house in the populous city. Spiritual Meaning: “desert” symbolizes the place which is far from the world; “inner rooms” symbolizes secret place which is not public.

Matt. 24:27 “For as the lightning comes from the east and flashes to the west, so also will the coming of the Son of Man be.” YLT: “for as the lightning doth come forth from the east, and doth appear unto the west, so shall be also the presence of the Son of Man;” Literal Meaning: “as the lightning comes from the east and flashes to the west.” “Lightening” dazzles at high speed and lightens the skyline. It describes that when the Lord comes, it happens quickly as a thunder and makes men be caught unawares on one hand, on the other, men of all the land will see His coming and it is not hidden. Remark: there are two phases of the Lord’s second coming. The first phase is that He comes in the clouds and it is hidden and at that time, the Lord will catch up the overcomers; the second is that He comes with clouds (See Rev. 1:7, Acts. 1:11) and it is public and at that time, the Lord will judge the whole world and the failing Christians. The first phase will last a period of time and then the second phase will come suddenly. The signs which the Lord had described in this passage indicate the second phase. If you want to know the first phase, please see v.36-44 in this chapter.

Matt. 24:28 “For wherever the carcass is, there the eagles will be gathered together.” YLT: “for wherever the carcase may be, there shall the eagles be gathered together.” The Background: when there is carcass in some place, the raptors such as the eagles will be gathered from unknown places suddenly. The reason for their coming may be their keen nose or sense of sight and they do not need men’s notification. Therefore when men see groups of eagles hovering around, there must be carcass there. Spiritual Meaning: there are three different kinds of explanations about this verse: a) “Carcass” typifies the corporate sinners. They are like dead carcasses which do not have life in God’s sight (See Eph. 2:1). “Eagles” typify God’s judgments. It indicates that when the Lord comes with His Angels, He will execute judgment over the whole world (See Matt. 25:31). b) “Carcass” typifies the antichrist and its evil army. They are stinky carcasses in God’s sight. “Eagles” typify Christ and His angels and they will wipe them out (See Rev. 19:17-21). c) “Carcass” typifies Christ who has been crucified. “Eagles” typify God’s people (See Is. 40:31; Deut. 32:11). Where Christ is, those who believe on Him will be gathered there. Since the Lord’s coming is as sudden as the lightening (See v.27), those who truly believe on Him will know immediately and be gathered in the place where He is.

Matt. 24:29 “‘Immediately after the tribulation of those days the sun will be darkened, and the moon will not give its light; the stars will fall from heaven, and the powers of the heavens will be shaken.” YLT: “`And immediately after the tribulation of those days, the sun shall be darkened, and the moon shall not give her light, and the stars shall fall from the heaven, and the powers of the heavens shall be shaken;” Literal Meaning: from this verse, we could know that the Lord’s “public” coming happens at the end of the Great Tribulation. Moreover, when He comes, the signs of the heaven will change greatly (See Zech. 14:5-6; Joel. 2:31; 2Pet. 3:10). Spiritual Meaning: the change of the signs of the heaven sometimes also symbolizes the upheaval of social condition and the rise and fall of dynasties and nations (See Ezek. 32:7-8; Amos. 8:9); this also indicates the shake-up of nature. Enlightenment in the Word: the sun, the moon and stars all typify Christ; when the body comes, the shadow is not essential (See Col. 2:16-17). The moment Christ appears, all light bearers will be overshadowed.

Matt. 24:30 “Then the sign of the Son of Man will appear in heaven, and then all the tribes of the earth will mourn, and they will see the Son of Man coming on the clouds of heaven with power and great glory.” YLT: “and then shall appear the sign of the Son of Man in the heaven; and then shall all the tribes of the earth smite the breast, and they shall see the Son of Man coming upon the clouds of the heaven, with power and much glory;” Literal Meaning: “then the sign of the Son of Man will appear in heaven,” “then” indicates the time “after the Great Tribulation has just past by” (See v.29); “the sing of the Son of Man” must be a sign that the moment men see it, they will know that it is the sign that the Lord Jesus Himself comes. It will “appear in heaven” and therefore it is a mysterious and supernatural phenomenon. Someone holds that this sign may be a cross in the air because when the scribes and the Pharisees wanted to see the sign, the Lord answered them that an evil and adulterous generation sought after a sign; and there shall no sign be given to it, but the sign of the prophet Jonas (it typifies the cross) (See Matt. 12:38-41). “All the tribes of the earth will mourn.” “All the tribes” indicates all the races of Israel who will repent and mourn (See Rev. 1:7; Zech. 12:10-14). “They will see the Son of Man coming on the clouds of heaven with power and great glory.” “The Son of Man” is the title for the Lord who became flesh and suffered pain. When the Lord comes, He will show the conditions of “power” and “great glory” because the Lord the Lord shall consume the antichrist with the spirit of his mouth (power), and shall destroy it with the brightness (great glory) of his coming (See 2Thess. 2:8). “Coming on the clouds of heaven” At that time, He is not hidden in the clouds of air. He comes on the clouds of heaven.

Matt. 24:31 “And He will send His angels with a great sound of a trumpet, and they will gather together His elect from the four winds, from one end of heaven to the other.” YLT: “and he shall send his messengers with a great sound of a trumpet, and they shall gather together his chosen from the four winds, from the ends of the heavens unto the ends thereof.” Literal Meaning: “His elect” indicates Gentile (various countries in the world) Jews (See Is. 45:4; 65:9; 49:22; Deut. 7:6). The Lord comes with a shout, with the voice of the archangel, and with the trump of God (See 1Thess. 4:16) and He will gather those who are of Him on earth together before Him. Enlightenment in the Word: 1) The moment the glorious Christ appears, He will draw all the nations to Him; the best way to preach the glad tidings is to manifest Christ to men. 2) Only those who are of Christ can belong to Him. Today how much of our being and deeds are of Him and will belong to Him in the eternal age?

Matt. 24:32 “‘Now learn this parable from the fig tree: When its branch has already become tender and puts forth leaves, you know that summer is near.” YLT: “`And from the fig-tree learn ye the simile: When already its branch may have become tender, and the leaves it may put forth, ye know that summer [is] nigh,” Literal Meaning: “when its branch has already become tender and puts forth leaves” indicates the time when life is lively. It means that it has already been spring and therefore summer is not far away. Spiritual Meaning: “the fig tree” typifies the kingdom of Israel. It was cursed because it did not bear fruits (See Matt. 21:19) and therefore its withering typifies the fall of Israel. Today its branch has already become tender and puts forth leaves and it typifies that the Restoration of Israel. “ Summer” is in contrast with winter and winter symbolizes the time of the Great Tribulation (See v.7-21); summer symbolizes the age of the restoration of kingdom (See Luke. 21:30-31) and this age will start from the Lord’s second coming. Enlightenment in the Word: 1) “Learn this parable from the fig tree.” Christ is the one who fills all in all (See Eph. 1:23). All things all manifest Christ and therefore we should learn to know Christ from all things. 2) Christ reigns in life (See Rom. 5:17) and His kingdom must be full of abundant lives. The more abundantly believers have life, the more they will partake in the kingdom of God (See John. 10:10).

Matt. 24:33 “So you also, when you see all these things, know that it is near--at the doors!” YLT: “so also ye, when ye may see all these, ye know that it is nigh at the doors.” Literal Meaning: “when you see all these things.” “All these things” indicate the Lord’s prophecies that had been fulfilled in the past two thousand years. “ Know that it is near.” “It” that is near should indicate “summer” i.e. the kingdom. Spiritual Meaning: the Lord’s words remind us that as long as we see that the kingdom of Israel has restored, we should know that the Lord’s second coming and the realization of the kingdom are near.

Matt. 24:34 “Assuredly, I say to you, this generation will by no means pass away till all these things take place.” YLT: “Verily I say to you, this generation may not pass away till all these may come to pass.” Literal Meaning: “this generation will by no means pass away,” The word “this generation” means “many generations” in the original and the generation in the Bible usually does not mean the age of men’s existence but men’s moral state before God (See Deut. 32:5, Matt. 11:16; 12:39, 41, 42, 45; 23:36); in another words, the situation that the world is evil, adulterous and wicked determines the length of the generation. Therefore this generation could continue and indicate the whole period until the Lord’s second coming. “All these tings take place.” “All these things” include the things before the Lord comes back. The words that the Lord has said must be fulfilled. The Restoration of Israel is fulfilled in A.D. 1948 and therefore we could hear indistinctly the steps of His second coming. Saints should never regard the Lord’s words as unimportant.

Matt. 24:35 “Heaven and earth will pass away, but My words will by no means pass away.” YLT: “The heaven and the earth shall pass away, but my words shall not pass away.” Literal Meaning: “heaven and earth will pass away” “Heaven” is singular, showing that it is the heaven that is in contrast with the earth. One day, the old heaven and earth will perish (See 2Pet. 3:10; Heb. 1:11-12). “ My words will by no means pass away.” The Lord’s word is settled in the heaven (Ps. 119:89) and it must be fulfilled.

Matt. 24:36 “‘But of that day and hour no one knows, not even the angels of heaven, but My Father only.” YLT: “`And concerning that day and the hour no one hath known not even the messengers of the heavens except my Father only;” Literal Meaning: “that day and hour” indicates the Lord’s second coming and the Day of Judgment at the last day. “No one knows.” If someone declares that he knows that the Lord comes back some day and some time, we could judge that he must be the false prophet according to words here. “Neither the son” shows that He stands on the position of humbling Himself and obeying God the Father (See John. 10:30; 14:28), He is willing to be unknown. Enlightenment in the Word: 1) Though all sorts of signs show that the end of this generation is near and the Lord is coming for a second time, no one knows the day and hour of the Lord’s coming, but God the Father. 2) Calculating the day and hour is not pious and it is destined to fail. 3) The Lord, standing on the position of the Son of Man, is willing to be unknown. Sometimes, we should not manage with an effort to know the things that God does not let us know (for example: the day of the Lord’s coming, the meaning of the seven thunders in Rev. 10:14 and etc.), lest we fall into the trap of Satan and think that we shall be as God, knowing good and evil (Gen. 3:5) and eat “the fruit of the tree of the knowledge of good and evil”.

Matt. 24:37 “But as the days of Noah were, so also will the coming of the Son of Man be.” YLT: “and as the days of Noah so shall be also the presence of the Son of Man;” Literal Meaning: “as the days of Noah were,” The features of “the days of Noah” are as follows: a) The world was corrupt and evil (See Gen. 6:5-13); b) They were eating and drinking, marrying and give in marriage (See v.38); c) They did not believe that the flood would come suddenly (See 2Pet. 2:5); d) They did not believe in the salvation of the ark (See 1Pet. 3:20). “So also will the coming of the Son of Man be.” This passage are teachings especially for believers of the New Testament and therefore the Lord here showed that believers may act like the world who indulge themselves in the needs of the flesh (i.e. eating and drinking, marrying and giving in marriage) and are unaware of preparing themselves to face the judgment of the Lord’s second coming (they did not know until the flood came and took them all away).

Matt. 24:38 “For as in the days before the flood, they were eating and drinking, marrying and giving in marriage, until the day that Noah entered the ark,” YLT: “for as they were, in the days before the flood, eating, and drinking, marrying, and giving in marriage, till the day Noah entered into the ark,” Literal Meaning: “they were eating and drinking, marrying and giving in marriage.” “Eating and drinking” indicates to maintain the existence of the flesh and the enjoyment of soul; “marrying and giving in marriage” indicates to continue the life of the flesh and the joy of soul. Spiritual Meaning: “Noah entered the ark” typifies that men are able to enjoy the salvation of the cross by believing in Jesus Christ and are saved from God’s judgment of wrath (the flood). Enlightenment in the Word: 1) The world who do not believe in the Lord only makes provision for the flesh (“they were eating and drinking, marrying and giving in marriage”) and seeks the earthly enjoyment, however, their hearts are hardened and they are unwilling to receive the salvation (“entering the ark”). 2) Believers in last time should live in Christ all the time, lest we may be judged by God.

Matt. 24:39 “and did not know until the flood came and took them all away, so also will the coming of the Son of Man be.” YLT: “and they did not know till the flood came and took all away; so shall be also the presence of the Son of Man.” Literal Meaning: this verse shows that the Lord will come suddenly and execute judgment when men are absolutely unconscious. Enlightenment in the Word: everything and everyone that are not related to Christ will be taken away by the flood; what we should seek is what can not be taken away by the flood.

Matt. 24:40 “Then two men will be in the field: one will be taken and the other left.” YLT: “Then two men shall be in the field, the one is received, and the one is left;” Literal Meaning: “two men will be in the field.” “Two men” is in contrast with “two women” in the following verse. “ One will be taken and the other left.” “Be taken” means “associate with oneself”; “left” means the one has not been taken away. Which is good of “being taken” or “being left”? We should see who takes and leaves one. The former says that the Son of Man comes and therefore we could conclude that blessed is the one who has been taken by the Lord and woe to the one who has been left by the Lord. Spiritual Meaning: we must judge what the “two men” indicates according to the meaning of the Lord in this passage (See Matt. 24:32-25:30). In the past, many commentator of the Bible held that “two men” indicates all the people (which include those who are saved and those who have not been saved) and the one who is taken indicates the one who is saved is raptured and the one who is left is the one who has not been saved is abandoned by the Lord. However, we hold that this statement is inappropriate and the reasons are as follow: a) Closely after the parable of “one will be taken and the other left”, the Lord said that “watch therefore” (See v.42), showing that this is a warning to the disciples (those who are saved) and if they do not watch, they may be left. b) Only those who are saved are able to watch and those who have not been saved cannot watch. c) “Your lord” (See v.42) shows their master-servant relationship with the Son of Man and only those who are saved are His servants. d) “The evil servant says in his heart, ‘my master…’” (See v.48). The word shows that he confesses his relationship with the master in his heart. Common people may say yes and mean no. The confession with his mouth may be unreliable, however, the confession with one’s heart must be all right. e) In addition, many verses in Matt.25 show that what the Lord indicates are those who are saved. This will be mentioned in next chapter. In a word, when the Lord comes, first He comes secretly in clouds of the air and catches up the living believers in the clouds to be with the Lord. This is the meaning of “being taken”. As for believers who do not watch, they will be left on earth and experience the Great Tribulation of three and a half years and then they could see the countenance of the Lord. Please note that the Lord teaches men to watch here. “One will be taken and the other left” does not mean that those who are raptured just occupy a half. Enlightenment in the Word: 1) Today, believers seem to be the same in appearance and they all live and labor for the Lord, however, God knows the one who loves Him (See 1Cor. 8:3). 2) There is no doubt that we should work in toil, however, we must work “in the Lord” and then our labor is not in vain (See 1Cor. 15:58); otherwise, though one works in toil, he may be left by the Lord. 3) There is no doubt that workers who serve the Lord are building, however, they must take heed how they build upon it. If their work is wrong, it may be burned one day (See 1Cor. 3:10-15). 4) To servants, it is our duty to work in the field and serve the Lord in the house (See Luke. 17:7-10). The problem is that what the real motive and attitude of us to serve the Lord are.

Matt. 24:41 “Two women will be grinding at the mill: one will be taken and the other left.” YLT: “two women shall be grinding in the mill, one is received, and one is left.” Enlightenment in the Word: 1) Farming and “grinding” are both related to grain; the most important work of believers in the church is to supply spiritual food to each other. 2) Not only brothers are responsible to supply spiritual food (work in the field), but also sisters partake in this work (“two women will be grinding at the mill”). There is no male or female in the church (See Gal. 3:28).

Matt. 24:42 “Watch therefore, for you do not know what hour your Lord is coming.” YLT: “`Watch ye therefore, because ye have not known in what hour your Lord doth come;” Literal Meaning: “watch therefore” “Therefore” carries on the above verses, showing that the distinction between one that is taken and one that is left does not lie in whether one is saved but whether he “watches”. If the condition to be taken is that one is saved, the Lord Jesus does not need to persuade His disciples to watch. Watching means that one should not be careless and should live and work with the attitude of waiting for the coming the Lord daily and any move and any concern of him should be for welcoming the Lord and pleasing Him. “For you do not know what hour your Lord is coming.” If we know what hour the Lord is coming, we do not need to watch everyday and only need to watch at the last day; however, for we do not know what hour the Lord is coming, we have to watch everyday. Enlightenment in the Word: The first important thing of welcoming the kingdom is “watching”; anyone who does not care about the second coming of the Lord does watch.

Matt. 24:43 “But know this, that if the master of the house had known what hour the thief would come, he would have watched and not allowed his house to be broken into.” YLT: “and this know, that if the master of the house had known in what watch the thief doth come, he had watched, and not suffered his house to be broken through;” Literal Meaning: “if the master of the house had known what hour the thief would come.” There are two features of the thief: a) he comes when men are careless; b) he specially steals things that are precious. Spiritual Meaning: “the master” typifies believers; “the house” indicates our spirits, souls and bodies, i.e. our behaviors and work; “the thief” typifies the Lord Jesus who comes suddenly just like the thief; “his house to be broken into” typifies to prove everything after we have been saved. The Lord’s second coming happens unpredictably and He will take believers who are spiritually mature. Enlightenment in the Word: 1) Jessie Penn-Lewis said, “Christians should watch from the first day of their Christian life”. We should be watchful of the enemy, the world and ourselves. 2) To the Jews, rapture is the sign of the end of the age; to believers who are left, the days of suffering hardship come to them.

Matt. 24:44 “Therefore you also be ready, for the Son of Man is coming at an hour you do not expect.” YLT: “because of this also ye, become ye ready, because in what hour ye do not think, the Son of Man doth come.” Literal Meaning: “therefore you also be ready.” “Be ready” means to take oil to one’s vessel (See Matt. 25:4). “ The Son of Man is coming” “The Son of Man” is the Lord’s title in the kingdom (See Matt.19:28; John. 5:27-29), and He reigns as a man. Enlightenment in the Word: we must make us “be ready” and hope to grow up in the Lord and we should also “watch” and live piously in the Lord.

Matt. 24:45 “‘Who then is a faithful and wise servant, whom his master made ruler over his household, to give them food in due season?” YLT: “`Who, then, is the servant, faithful and wise, whom his lord did set over his household, to give them the nourishment in season?” Literal Meaning: “who then is a faithful and wise servant” “Faithful” is towards the Lord, i.e. one fulfills what the Lord has entrusted; “wise” is towards brothers, i.e. knowing what others are in need of. “Servant” is slave in the original. We are not our own for we are bought as slaves with a price by the Lord (See 1Cor. 6:19- 20). “Whom his master made.” This sentence shows that the source of service is the Lord and it is not of the “individual” or “corporate” sending. “ Ruler over his household” “Ruler” does not mean to lord over but to look after (See 1Pet. 5:2-3); “household” indicates believers (See Eph. 2:19). The identity of believers before God is the household of God on one hand and on the other His servants. We should not think that only the so-called “pastors and preachers” who serve the Lord full-time are the Lord’s servants. “Give them food in due season.” Every believer, no matter he is great or not, has a duty to do in the house of God (the church)------sharing spiritual provision with saints who are around him according to God’s season, for example: praying for weak members, communicating the enlightenment that he has received with others, visitation and concern with love and etc. Enlightenment in the Word: 1) “Faithful” means that one does not discount the Lord’s words and we shall do as the Lord has said; “wise” means that one is concerned about the need of men and supplies men what they need. 2) It is unfaithful that believers hold their own opinions as right; it is not wise that believers do not take care of others’ need and give all that they have to others randomly. 3) Our trouble is that: someone may be faithful and unwise; someone may be unfaithful and wise; someone may be unfaithful and unwise and all these conditions make us be unable to perform our duties. 4) “Giving food” is to serve God’s words and things to others to make them receive nourishment of life.

Matt. 24:46 “Blessed is that servant whom his master, when he comes, will find so doing.” YLT: “Happy that servant, whom his lord, having come, shall find doing so;” Literal Meaning: “when he comes” indicates the time when the Lord Jesus comes for the second time. “ Blessed is that servant.” “Blessing” is not the blessing of this life but the reward of the kingdom.

Matt. 24:47 “Assuredly, I say to you that he will make him ruler over all his goods.” YLT: “verily I say to you, that over all his substance he will set him.” Literal Meaning: “make him ruler over all his goods” is to gain the authority over cities in the reality of the kingdom (See Luke. 19:17-19). Enlightenment in the Word: if believers cannot “rule one’s household” today (See v.45), it is impossible to “rule all his goods” in future; today what the Lord has entrusted us is only for us to practice and exercise and make preparations for gaining more commissions in future.

Matt. 24:48 “But if that evil servant says in his heart, ‘My master is delaying his coming,'” YLT: “`And, if that evil servant may say in his heart, My Lord doth delay to come,” Literal Meaning: “that evil servant” does not indicate those who have not been saved because he confesses that the Lord Jesus is “my master” “in his heart”. Enlightenment in the Word: 1) The reason why the servant is evil is that he thinks that the Lord must “be delaying His coming”; he who does not have the right knowledge of the Lord’s second coming may become an evil servant. 2) He who does not believe that the Lord comes quickly is the evil servant; some evil servants say that the Lord must come quickly with their mouths, however, in their hearts they think that the Lord must be “delaying His coming”. 3) We should have the attitude and wish for the quick coming of the Lord and therefore we should always pray, “come, Lord Jesus.” (Rev. 22:20).

Matt. 24:49 “and begins to beat his fellow servants, and to eat and drink with the drunkards,” YLT: “and may begin to beat the fellow-servants, and to eat and to drink with the drunken,” Literal Meaning: “and begins to beat his fellow servants.” “Fellow servants” indicate brothers who are fellow-servants. Believers are fellow-partakers in the tribulation and kingdom and patience of Jesus (See Rev. 1:9). “Begins to beat” may not indicate beating with hands. All that we make Saints feel sad, hurt and be offended with words and attitudes could be counted as “beating”. “ To eat and drink with the drunkards.” “Drunkards” indicate those who are greedy of the present world and are libertine and unrestrained (See Eph. 5:15- 18), including the corrupt and failing believers and unbelievers. Enlightenment in the Word: 1) We should never tread or hurt brothers and sisters who are our fellow- workers. 2) If we do not set forth the Lord’s second coming before our eyes, we may easily loosen ourselves and on one hand we may owe believers and make them feel hurt by words and attitudes and on the other we may associate with those who are of the world and the flesh and seek the pleasures of sins.

Matt. 24:50 “the master of that servant will come on a day when he is not looking for him and at an hour that he is not aware of,” YLT: “the lord of that servant will arrive in a day when he doth not expect, and in an hour of which he doth not know,”

Matt. 24:51 “and will cut him in two and appoint him his portion with the hypocrites. There shall be weeping and gnashing of teeth.” YLT: “and will cut him off, and his portion with the hypocrites will appoint; there shall be the weeping and the gnashing of the teeth.” Literal Meaning: “appoint him his portion with the hypocrites” “The hypocrites” indicate the nominal religious believers; “There shall be weeping and gnashing of teeth.” “Weeping and gnashing of teeth” indicates that one regrets having done something and unfortunately time will not wait for him. The Lord will come quickly and unexpectedly and separate anyone who says that the Lord must come quickly with mouth and does not take it seriously in his heart from other believers and he will receive the punishment that he deserves temporarily. At that time, it is too late for them to repent.

III. Outlines of the Spiritual Lessons When will “These Things” (v.3) Be?------the Lord’s Answer I. Israel is filled up with the measure of their fathers (Matt. 23:32)------they betray one another and hate one another, false prophets deceive many, the love of many will grow cold because lawlessness will abound (v.10-12). II. The Lord sent prophets, wise men and scribes (Matt. 23:34)------“you” will be hated by all nations for the Lord’s name’s sake (v.9). III. The Lord will render the evil Israel (Matt. 23:35-36)------then there will be great tribulation (v.21-22). IV. The Holy Temple will be thrown down (v.2)------the “abomination of desolation” will stand in the holy place (v.15). V. The house of Israel will look upon the Lord’s second coming (Matt. 23:39b)------they will see the Son of Man coming on the clouds of heaven with power and great glory (v.30). VI. The Lord will gather the Israel as a hen gathers her chickens under her wings (Matt. 23:37)------they will gather together His elect (v.31).

What will Be the Sign of Your Coming and of the End of the Age (v.3)?------The Lord’s answer I. The branches of the fig tree must become tender and put forth leaves (v.32-33). II. There must be the beginning of sorrows (v.6-12). III. There must be many things that deceit the elect (v.4-5, 23-26). IV. The abomination of desolation must stand in the holy place (v.15). V. There must be rapture (v.37-41). VI. There must be the Great Tribulation (v.21-22). VII. There must be the great change of the signs of the heaven (v.29). VIII. There must be the sign of the Son of Man (v.30-31).

The Sign of the Lord’s Second Coming I. The sign before the end of the age: A. Many people who deceive men will rise up in future (v.3-5, v.11). B. Many man-made and natural disasters will take place in future (v.6-8). C. Many lawless things such as persecuting the Saints will happen (v.9-10, 12- 13). D. Gospel must be preached in all the world first (v.14). II. The sign of the end of the age: A. Antichrist will appear in the Holy Temple (v.15-20). B. There must be the Great Tribulation (v.21-22). C. False christs and prophets will still rise up (v.23-26). III. The sign of Christ’s second coming: A. The sign of the coming of the Son of Man (v.27-31). B. The sign that the branches of the fig tree become tender and bring forth leaves (v.32-36). C. The Son of Man comes suddenly as the thief (v.37-44).

Matthew Chapter Twenty-five

The Judgments in the Second Coming of the Lord I. Judgments towards believers: A. He judges according to how they treat others (Matt. 24:45-51). B. He judges according to how they prepare themselves (v.1-13). C. He judges according to how they use God’s gifts (v.14-30). II. Judgments towards the world (those who are alive when the Lord comes): A. He separates sheep from the goats (v.31-33). B. The sheep who treat God’s people well will receive reward (v.34-40). C. The goats who neglect the pain of God’s people will be punished (v.41-46).

Matt. 25:1 “‘Then the kingdom of heaven shall be likened to ten virgins who took their lamps and went out to meet the bridegroom.” YLT: “`Then shall the reign of the heavens be likened to ten virgins, who, having taken their lamps, went forth to meet the bridegroom;” The Background: there were two parts in the ancient Jewish marriage: the bridegroom came to the house of the bride to marry her and gave banquets to entertain guests. Sometimes the wedding banquet lasted as long as seven days and then the bride and her husband returned to the house of the bridegroom together to hold the wedding ceremony. According to the convention, on the day that the bridegroom went to marry the bride, the bridegroom went to the house of his relatives or friends to eat and make merry first and then the bridegroom came to the house of the bride at midnight. Therefore, the young girl friends of the bride (virgins) had the duty to welcome the bridegroom. When the bride was delayed, virgins could lie down and rest temporarily and wait that those who accompany the bride shouted that, “the bridegroom is coming!” and then they rose and went out to meet the bridegroom with their lamps. Literal Meaning: “then the kingdom of heaven shall be likened to ten virgins” “Then” indicates the time of the second coming of the Lord; “the kingdom of heaven shall be likened” indicates all things that would happen, including all the conditions which have been described in v.1-13, when the Lord comes for the second time and brings in the reality of the kingdom. Spiritual Meaning: “ten believers” typify believers who are likened a chaste virgin espoused to Christ (See 2Cor. 11:2); “lamps” typify spirits of men (See Prov. 20:27); “the bridegroom” typifies the Lord Jesus Christ who will come to marry the bride (See Matt. 9:15; John. 3:29). Believers, living in the generation of darkness, shoulder the testimony of Christ (“took their lamps”). They shine as lights in the world and hold forth the word of life (Pill. 2:15-16) and they come out of the world step by step to meet the coming Christ (“went out to meet the bride”). Remark: a) virgins are mentioned here instead of spouse because “spouse” typifies the church (See Eph. 5:25) ------the total title that includes all believers and virgins typify individual believers. This parable stresses on individual condition to watch, make preparation and wait for the second coming of the Lord. b) “Ten” added to “two” makes “twelve”. The number “twelve” in the Bible indicates “the perfect of the eternal age” and therefore “ten virgins” in this chapter and “two” one of which was taken and the other was left in previous chapter (See Matt. 24:40-41) are the sum of Christians at all times and in all countries. Before the Lord comes, most of Christians have been dead and therefore “ten” is used to represent the dead believers; the “two” in previous chapter represents believers who are still alive when the Lord comes. Enlightenment in the Word: 1) Believers are likened virgins who are presented to Christ and therefore we should have hearts of simplicity towards Christ and should not love any person or thing besides the Lord (See 2Cor. 11:2-3). 2) Believers are the light of the world and our “lamps” should shine all the time and then we are able to glory God the Father (See Matt. 5:14-16). 3) Our mission is to “go out and meet the bridegroom”; Christ is the meaning of our life and in this way to us to die is gain (See Pill. 1:21). 4) Christ is our “bridegroom” and His care, love, provision and encouragement keep fresh and never fail forever.

Matt. 25:2 “Now five of them were wise, and five were foolish.” YLT: “and five of them were prudent, and five foolish;” Meaning of Words: “foolish”: dull, stupid and fool (See Matt. 5:22); “wise”: sagacious, discreet, intelligent and sensible (See Matt. 24:45). Spiritual Meaning: “five” is the number which means that men are responsible before God and therefore “five” wise and “five” foolish virgins symbolize each believer should bear his own responsibility before God. Enlightenment in the Word: 1) Whether men are “foolish” or “wise” before God should not be imputed to their nature. What’s important is whether men perform their own responsibilities before God (“five”). 2) The fear of Jehovah is the beginning of knowledge (See Prov. 1:7). Anyone who is simple to God’s words and trusts and obeys God’s words is wise and anyone who has the attitude of “however”, “maybe”, “according to my opinion” and etc towards God’s words is foolish.

Matt. 25:3 “Those who were foolish took their lamps and took no oil with them,” YLT: “they who were foolish having taken their lamps, did not take with themselves oil;” The Background: “lamp” indicates firebrand which is a long stick on which top there are shreds immersed with oil. If it is lightened, it could be used to shine outside at night. Usually men will take with vessels which carry oil for the need of oil, lest it may quench. Literal Meaning: “took no oil with them” does not mean that there is no oil in their lamps because their lamps shine (See v.8) and therefore this should mean that they have not “taken oil in their vessels” (See v.4). Spiritual Meaning: “those who were foolish took their lamps” “Took their lamps” symbolizes that their spirits have been quickened (See Eph. 2:5) and they are able to shine for the Lord (See Eph. 5:8-14). “Took no oil with them” “Oil” typifies the Holy Spirit (See Is. 61:1; Heb. 1:9; 1John. 2:20, 27); “took no oil with them” does not mean that they do have the indwelling Holy Spirit in their spirits (lamps) (See Rom. 8:9; Eph. 1:13). It means that they do not allow their whole persons be baptized and filled with the Holy Spirit (vessels). Enlightenment in the Word: 1) It is not enough that believers have been born from above and have the indwelling Holy Spirit. They should let every part of their souls and even the whole persons be filled with the Holy Spirit (See Acts. 6:3, 5; Eph. 5:18). 2) “Receiving the Holy Spirit” (the oil of the lamps) is God’s free reward (See Ezek. 36:26) and “being full of the Holy Spirit” (took oil in the vessels) is what we should pay price to seek.

Matt. 25:4 “but the wise took oil in their vessels with their lamps.” YLT: “and the prudent took oil in their vessels, with their lamps.” Literal Meaning: the wise and the foolish al “took their lamps” and the only difference is that the foolish “took no oil in their vessels” (See v.3) and the wise “took oil in their vessels”. Spiritual Meaning: The aim of God to create men is to make men His vessels (See Rom. 9:21-24; 1Pet. 3:7) and therefore “vessels” symbolizes souls of believers, i.e. the outward men of believers (See 2Cor. 4:16). “Took oil in their vessels” symbolizes that believers let the Holy Spirit spread in their spirits and fill every part of their souls. Enlightenment in the Word: 1) Each believer has a duty to perform and it is to let our whole persons be filled and baptized with the Holy Spirit. 2) The Holy Spirit is unwilling to strive with men’s souls (See Gen. 6:3) and therefore if we want to be full of the Holy Spirit, we have to deny ourselves and take up our crosses (See Matt. 10:38-39; 16:24-25). 3) Whether one is foolish or wise depends on whether one is willing to lose the life of soul or seek easy in order to save the life of soul.

Matt. 25:5 “But while the bridegroom was delayed, they all slumbered and slept.” YLT: “`And the bridegroom tarrying, they all nodded and were sleeping,” Spiritual Meaning: “while the bridegroom was delayed” typifies that the Lord’s second coming has not been fulfilled yet (See 2Pet. 3:9). “They all slumbered and slept.” “They slumbered” because their bodies and minds were exhausted and therefore it symbolizes that believers were senile in the flesh and sick (See Acts. 9:37; 1Cor. 11:30); “slept” symbolizes believers’ death of the flesh (See John. 11:11-13; 1Cor. 15:18; 1Thess. 4:13-14). The Lord Jesus promised that He would come again, however, two thousand years has passed away, the Lord is delayed and had not come yet. Therefore many believers “slumbered” (became weak) first and then “slept” (died) before He comes. Enlightenment in the Word: 1) If the Lord is delayed, we, no matter we are foolish or wise, all will “slumber and sleep”. 2) The difference of foolish and wise believers all depends on the conditions before they “slept”. Our states in this world determine our positions before the Lord in future.

Matt. 25:6 “‘And at midnight a cry was heard: ‘Behold, the bridegroom is coming; go out to meet him!'” YLT: “and in the middle of the night a cry was made, Lo, the bridegroom doth come; go ye forth to meet him.” Spiritual Meaning: “at midnight a cry was heard” “Midnight” indicates the time when the night is far spent (See Rom. 13:12). This world will become darker and darker until the Lord comes; “a cry was heard” indicates that the Lord himself shall come with a shout, with the voice of the archangel (See 1Thess. 4:16). Enlightenment in the Word: 1) Sometimes, when we are in the worst environment and encounter the darkest period (“at midnight”), the Lord comes to save us. 2) All the pursuit, life and testimony of believers are for the purpose of “meeting” Christ and also belong to Christ.

Matt. 25:7 “Then all those virgins arose and trimmed their lamps.” YLT: “`Then rose all those virgins, and trimmed their lamps,” Literal Meaning: “trimmed their lamps” indicates to cut the ends of shreds which have been burnt (See the background of v.3). Spiritual Meaning: “arose” symbolizes that the dead shall be raised (See 1Cor. 15:52; 1Thess. 4:16); “trimmed their lamps” symbolizes that after believers arose, they were enlightened by God and then deal with their witness that they had bore to Christ all their lives and the level their spiritual life have reached. Enlightenment in the Word: 1) Believers’ walking and experience during their lifetime are the preparations to meet the Lord in future (See Rev. 19:7-8; 1Pet. 1:5-7; 4:13). 2) If we do not learn spiritual lessons well when we live today, we will still need to make up the missed lesson (“trimmed lamps”) in future.

Matt. 25:8 “And the foolish said to the wise, ‘Give us some of your oil, for our lamps are going out.'” YLT: “and the foolish said to the prudent, Give us of your oil, because our lamps are going out;” Literal Meaning: “Give us some of your oil” indicates that the five foolish virgins suddenly found that they had not taken enough oil after they arose. “For our lamps are going out.” It shows that their lamps have been lightened and there is oil in their lamps. However, the oil is not enough and is about to be used up and then their lamps will quench. Spiritual Meaning: “give us some of your oil” typifies that they want to share the spiritual achievements with other believers. Enlightenment in the Word: 1) Believers must take oil (be full of the Holy Spirit) soon or later------if we do not take oil in this life, we have to take oil in future. 2) The more our spirits are full of the Holy Spirit, the more bright the outward enlightenment will be; the less the Holy Spirit is in our spirits, the dimmer the enlightenment is (“our lamps are going out”).

Matt. 25:9 “But the wise answered, saying, ‘No, lest there should not be enough for us and you; but go rather to those who sell, and buy for yourselves.'” YLT: “and the prudent answered, saying Lest there may not be sufficient for us and you, go ye rather unto those selling, and buy for yourselves.” Literal Meaning: “lest there should not be enough for us and you” means that “sorry and I am willing to help but I’m unable to do so because the oil is only enough for ourselves”. Spiritual Meaning: the answer of the wise virgins shows spiritual principles as follows: a) The gifts of the Holy Spirit could be shared with each other (See Acts. 8:17; 19:6; 1Tim. 1:6), however, the fullness of the Holy Spirit (oil in the vessels) cannot be shared. b) Others could at most show how to be full off the Holy Spirit (“but…”). c) One has to seek to be full of the Holy Spirit by himself (“go rather…”). d) One has to pay price to seek to be full of the Holy Spirit (“go rather to those who sell and buy for yourselves”). “Those who sell” may be the “two sons of fresh oil” who stand before the Lord of the whole earth (See Zech. 4:11-14, “two anointed ones” mean “two sons of fresh oil” in the original); they are the two witnesses who will be sent in the Great Tribulation (See Rev. 11:3-4) that the “two oil trees” stand for. Enlightenment in the Word: 1) Believers should sympathize each other and have the same care one for another (See 1Cor. 12:25; Gal. 6:2), however, one can not share his spiritual experience and achievement with others. 2) The oil is not “given by others” but “bought from those who sell”------our experience of the unction gained “first-hand” instead of “second-hand”. 3) If we want to be full of the Holy Spirit, we have to pay price (See Rev. 3:18)------for example: forsaking all that one has, taking up one’s cross, denying oneself, following the Lord and etc. 4) The more price one pays, the more spiritual gain one may receive; the more one is deprived of by the cross, the more spiritual achievement one will receive.

Matt. 25:10 “And while they went to buy, the bridegroom came, and those who were ready went in with him to the wedding; and the door was shut.” YLT: “`And while they are going away to buy, the bridegroom came, and those ready went in with him to the marriage-feasts, and the door was shut;” The Background: the wedding feast of the ancient Jews sometimes lasted seven days (See Gen. 29:22, 28). Spiritual Meaning: “went in with him to the wedding” “Went in to the wedding” symbolizes that they partake in the marriage supper of the Lamb (See Rev. 19:9). “ The door was shut.” This “door” is not the door of salvation and life (See Matt. 7:14), but the door to enter the kingdom and enjoy the wedding (See Matt. 8:11). Remark: the marriage supper of the Lamb starts from the beginning of the kingdom of a thousand years (See Rev. 19:7, 9, 17) and ends at the end of the kingdom of a thousand years (See Rev. 21:2). It shows that the marriage supper of the Lamb is as long as the kingdom of a thousand years and overcomers will reign and enjoy with Christ a thousand years (Rev. 20:4-6). The period of a thousand years is only the marriage supper of the Lamb and Christ will formally marry the church as wife of the Lamb until the new heaven and the new earth of the eternal age (See Rev. 21:1-2, 9). Enlightenment in the Word: 1) The qualification to enter the marriage supper of the Lamb is determined by states of believers during their lifetime instead of their states after they arose. 2) Believers, while it is called today (See Heb. 3:13), should prepare themselves, lest we may be shut out of the door. 3) One has to buy the oil and the problem is whether one buys it early or late. Those who buy the oil early enter the marriage supper and those who buy the oil late are shut out of the door. Believers all will be full of the Holy Spirit and the problem is whether one is full of the Holy Spirit early or late. Since it is so, it is worthwhile to redeem the time and be filled with the Holy Spirit (See Eph. 5:16- 18).

Matt. 25:11 “‘Afterward the other virgins came also, saying, ‘Lord, Lord, open to us!'” YLT: “and afterwards come also do the rest of the virgins, saying, Sir, sir, open to us;” Literal Meaning: “the other virgins” indicate the other foolish virgins. “Came also” The difference between them and the wise virgins is that they came in different time. Spiritual Meaning: this verse shows two things: a) The foolish virgins also typify believers; “came also” typify that they were caught up later. b) They may have not been caught up for the first time because they have not been ready. Enlightenment in the Word: 1) When the Lord comes, not all believers are ready; if we begin to make preparations until the Lord comes, we will fall behind. 2) The moment believers are mature will they be caught up.

Matt. 25:12 “But he answered and said, ‘Assuredly, I say to you, I do not know you.'” YLT: “and he answering said, Verily I say to you, I have not known you.” Literal Meaning: “I do not know you” “Know” in the original (oida) means “praise, approve, like, recognize”. Therefore this sentence does not mean that the Lord does not know them at all. It means that the Lord does not praise them (See Matt. 7:23). Enlightenment in the Word: 1) The hope of the second coming of the Lord originally makes us be glad and rejoice (because we will go in with Him to the wedding). However, if we do not watch and make preparations, we may be punished by the Lord. 2) If believers pay price to reach the maturity of life after they arise in future, they won’t have intimacy with the Lord, be acceptable to God and enjoy the feast of the kingdom with the Lord together as the firstfruits (See Rev. 14:4).

Matt. 25:13 “‘Watch therefore, for you know neither the day nor the hour in which the Son of Man is coming.” YLT: “`Watch therefore, for ye have not known the day or the hour in which the Son of Man doth come.” Literal Meaning: “watch therefore” “watch” here means “be ready” (See v.10); “watch” indicates one’s attitude towards the Lord and “be ready” indicates the attitude towards himself. This verse and verse forty-four in chapter 24 support each other, showing that v.1-13 in this chapter are complementary to v.40-42 in chapter 24. There the Lord predicted that the living believers may be taken up or left when He comes; and here the Lord predicted that believers who had been dead will go in with Him to the wedding or be shut out of the door when He comes. Enlightenment in the Word: 1) Since the day and the hour of the Lord’s second coming are unknown to men, we should prepare ourselves as early as possible and always “watch”. 2) Those that are truly watchful fear that they are not ready. Not as though they had already attained, either were already perfect, however, they follow after (See Pill. 3:12). 3) If we live godly every day, with the attitude of meeting the second coming of the Lord, naturally we will be ready quickly.

Matt. 25:14 “‘For the kingdom of heaven is like a man traveling to a far country, who called his own servants and delivered his goods to them.” YLT: “`For as a man going abroad did call his own servants, and did deliver to them his substance,” Literal Meaning: “the kingdom of heaven is like” There is not “the kingdom of heaven” in the original and this could be translated as “it is like”. Spiritual Meaning: “a man traveling to a far country” “A man” indicates the Lord Jesus; “traveling to far country” indicates that the Lord departed out of the world unto the heaven (See Heb. 9:11; 1Pet. 3:22). “Who called his own servants and delivered his goods to them.” “Servants”, “slaves” in the original, indicate that believers are slaves who have been bought by the precious blood of the Lord (See 1Cor. 7:22-23); “goods” indicates spiritual inheritance, i.e. the house of God (the church) and children in the house of God (See Eph. 1:18). Enlightenment in the Word: 1) As far as life is concerned believers are virgins (See v.1) and should live for Him; as far as work is concerned believers are servants and work for Him. 2) We are sons and daughters of God by grace and faith and we are servants of the Lord by gifts and behaviors. One can be a child of God through Christ and one should be the Lord’s servant through the Holy Spirit.

Matt. 25:15 “And to one he gave five talents, to another two, and to another one, to each according to his own ability; and immediately he went on a journey.” YLT: “and to one he gave five talents, and to another two, and to another one, to each according to his several ability, went abroad immediately.” The Background: “talent” is a unit of the Jewish current system. The weight of a talent is about thirty kilograms and the value of a talent is three thousand shekel. Literal Meaning: “according to his own ability” “Ability” indicates the natural intelligence of each one and the acquired kill that one has learnt. Spiritual Meaning: “give them…talents” The money symbolizes gifts that a believer receives from the Lord after he has been saved (1Cor. 12:4-11) and these spiritual gifts originally belong to the house owner (See v.14). Today, the Lord transforms them to talents and makes us to manage them to fulfill their ministry according to the talents. “To one he gave five talents, to another two, and to another one.” The Lord gives each gifts of different measure according to the natural capacity of each (See Rom. 12:3, 6; Eph. 4:7). “And immediately he went on a journey.” It symbolizes that the Lord was taken up into heaven; actually, spiritual gifts are given from above after the Lord was taken up into heaven (See Eph. 4:8). Enlightenment in the Word: 1) Three servants symbolize all believers at all times and in all countries. Any believer is a servant of the Lord and he also receives spiritual gifts from the Lord. None of believers could decline that, “I do not have any gifts and therefore I do not need to hand over the accountants or do any service.” 2) The world stresses on abilities, however, abilities are really not gifts. As long as one’s abilities are used by the Lord, his abilities will be profitable to the Lord and men. 3) One’s abilities could influence the measure of gifts that one receives, however, it does not show that abilities outstrip gifts; abilities are of nature and gifts are of spirit. 4) In the church abilities have to be turned into gifts and then there won’t be any disorder; more than half of the problems in the church are caused by believers who do things with their natural abilities instead of spiritual gifts. 5) Gifts (“talents”) are given by the Lord instead of anyone in the church. Though Apostles and presbyteries also give gifts by praying and laying on of their hands (See 1Tim. 4:14; 2Tim. 1:6), however, they are only channels to give gifts and the dominion is of the Lord Himself. 6) Since the Lord has given gifts to every believer, His will is that every one in the church should use gifts. Therefore we should pay regard to others’ gifts and should never trample others’ gifts. 7) The Lord’s commitments of grace are given to us according to our abilities that He has given to us and His commitments won’t surpass what we could undertake. 8) The capacity of vessels will restrain the measure that the Lord gives (See 2Kings. 4:5-6) and therefore we should ask the Lord to enlarge our capacities and then we may receive more commitments.

Matt. 25:16 “Then he who had received the five talents went and traded with them, and made another five talents.” YLT: “`And he who did receive the five talents, having gone, wrought with them, and made other five talents;” Literal Meaning: “then…went and traded with them” “Then”: without any delay; “traded with them” shows that the aim of the Lord to give them talents is hoping them to be good at using the talents and make more talents instead of hiding the talents. Spiritual Meaning: “traded” symbolizes to use the gifts; “made another” symbolizes that: a) the more the gifts are used, the more the gifts will increase; b) the degree of the usage of the gifts, for example: he who had received five talents made another five talents, i.e. the absolute and complete use of gifts, without any waste or loss. Enlightenment in the Word: 1) The Lord gives each of us gifts in order to ask us to use the gifts (“traded with them”) so that spiritual inheritance may increase (“made another”). The more the gifts are used, the more the gifts will increase. 2) Our bodies, time, intelligence, gifts and etc should be completely used by the Lord and we should live for the Lord.

Matt. 25:17 “And likewise he who had received two gained two more also.” YLT: “in like manner also he who [received] the two, he gained, also he, other two;” Literal Meaning: “likewise” shows that his faithfulness and effort are the same with the one who had received five talents.

Matt. 25:18 “But he who had received one went and dug in the ground, and hid his lord's money.” YLT: “and he who did receive the one, having gone away, digged in the earth, and hid his lord’s money.” Spiritual Meaning: “dug in the ground” “Ground” symbolizes the world; “dug in the ground” symbolizes to secure personal gain in the world. “Hid his lord’s money.” “Hid money” symbolizes to neglect the gifts and it is the irresponsible behavior. Enlightenment in the Word: 1) Those who had received few gifts are usually easy to give themselves up as hopeless and ignore and neglect the gifts that are given by the Lord. 2) In the church believers should never slack because their own responsibilities are light and their works are easy. If so, they will be unable to pass the buck before the Lord. 3) If believers do not serve and engage in the church, and contrarily they turn to the world and put all their minds and energy in the world, it is the behavior of hiding gifts. 4) Any of our union, involvement, and intimacy, even a little idea of recalling the world will cause the hiding of spiritual gifts. 5) If believers’ words, manner and behaviors are affected by the world, naturally their gifts are hidden. For example: if we say something that is unworthy of saints to someone, we will be unable to bear witness to the Lord before him and therefore the gifts are hidden. 6) Anyone who is unwilling to use spiritual gifts in the excuse of earthly reasons (for example: I have to work to make money and therefore I have no time to take part in the meeting of gospel.) hides spiritual gifts.

Matt. 25:19 “After a long time the lord of those servants came and settled accounts with them.” YLT: “`And after a long time cometh the lord of those servants, and taketh reckoning with them;” Spiritual Meaning: “after a long time” “a long time” symbolizes the whole dispensation of grace. “The lord of those servants came.” It symbolizes the second coming of the Lord. “ Settled accounts with them.” “Settling accounts” symbolizes the judgment before the seat of Christ (See 2Cor. 5:10; Rom. 14:10). This judgment is different from the judgment before the throne of Christ’s glory in v.31-46 in this chapter. The former is towards believers and the latter the world. Enlightenment in the Word: 1) The accounts between believers and the Lord will be “settled” one day sooner or later and therefore we should retain in our hearts that how we will hand over our accounts. 2) Watchmen Nee wrote a poem, “I’m daily gazing at the light out of the Judgment seat, that all my living and my works may stand the test of fire”.

Matt. 25:20 “‘So he who had received five talents came and brought five other talents, saying, ‘Lord, you delivered to me five talents; look, I have gained five more talents besides them.'” YLT: “and he who did receive the five talents having come, brought other five talents, saying, `Sir, five talents thou didst deliver to me; lo, other five talents did I gain besides them.” Spiritual Meaning: note that it is “the lord came” in v.19 and here it is that servant who “came”. The previous verse symbolizes that the Lord comes in the clouds of air; this verse symbolizes that believers are caught up to the clouds, to meet the Lord in the air (See 1Thess. 4:17). Enlightenment in the Word: 1) All the service of believers on earth today will be handed over before the Lord one by one in future (See 1Cor. 3:10-15). Therefore all our deeds on earth today will be remembered in heaven (See Matt. 6:20) and they will also be remembered in the everlasting age (See Luke. 16:9). 2) The effect of our works today all belongs to the Lord and we will give account before the Lord in future. Therefore we should never have all to ourselves.

Matt. 25:21 “His lord said to him, ‘Well done, good and faithful servant; you were faithful over a few things, I will make you ruler over many things. Enter into the joy of your lord.'” YLT: “`And his lord said to him, Well done, servant, good and faithful, over a few things thou wast faithful, over many things I will set thee; enter into the joy of thy lord.” Meaning of Words: “good”: well, good deed; “faithful”: trustworthy, trustful. Literal Meaning: “good and faithful servant” “Good” indicates good intention and motive; “faithful” indicates good attitude and performance. Spiritual Meaning: “a few things” symbolize works in the Lord in this life; “many things” symbolize works that we will do in the kingdom in future; “ruler” symbolizes to reign; “Enter into the joy of your lord” symbolizes the reward of the kingdom. Enlightenment in the Word: 1) What the Lord demands us is not the greatness and prosperity of works but the “goodness” and “faithfulness”. Though Stephen did not do great work for the Lord (See Acts. 7) and he failed in men’s sight, he was “good and faithful” in the Lord’s sight. 2) “Good and faithful” is in contrast with “wicked and lazy” in v.26 and therefore “good” indicates to mind the things of the Lord and faithful indicates to be diligent and not slothful. 3) No matter how many things we had done for the Lord, there are only “a few things”. They are only the preparations that we have to experience in order to rule “many things” in future; the true services of believers are “many things” in the everlasting age. 4) We always think that we have served too much, however, these are “a few things” in the Lord’s sight; if we could see all the service in the Lord’s sight, we will do cheerfully. 5) To those who are faithful in “a few things” in this life, their rewards are to bear more responsibilities (“many things”) in future. 6) Those who serve faithfully today will receive the authority of a “ruler”. Whoever will be great among believers, let him be your minister (See Matt. 20:26). 7) The Lord Jesus, for the joy that was set before Him, endured the cross, despising the shame (See Heb. 12:2). We should also be faithful to the end, for that we could enter “the joy of your lord” in future. 8) It is the great reward to enter into the joy with the Lord and it exceedingly surpasses the glory and status in the kingdom because joy is the satisfaction of one’s inner heart and it cannot be compared with the outer gain. 9) Though believers have joy today (See 1Pet. 1:8), we will receive greater joy in future (See Pill. 1:23; 1John. 3:2); the joy that believers rejoice today is restrained by their capacities (hearts) (See John. 15:11-12), however, the joy that we will rejoice in future is baptized in the joy of Christ (“enter into the joy of your lord”) and it is unlimited and immeasurable.

Matt. 25:22 “He also who had received two talents came and said, ‘Lord, you delivered to me two talents; look, I have gained two more talents besides them.'” YLT: “`And he who also did receive the two talents having come, said, Sir, two talents thou didst deliver to me; lo, other two talents I did gain besides them.” Enlightenment in the Word: the one who had received two talents did not envy others because his gifts are not as good as others. Contrarily, he is faithful towards what the lord has entrusted to him all the same. This manner makes him not be inferior to the one who had received five talents.

Matt. 25:23 “His lord said to him, ‘Well done, good and faithful servant; you have been faithful over a few things, I will make you ruler over many things. Enter into the joy of your lord.'” YLT: “`His lord said to him, Well done, servant, good and faithful, over a few things thou wast faithful, over many things I will set thee; enter into the joy of thy lord.” Literal Meaning: note that: the lord’s reward to the one who had received two talents is the same with that to the one who had received five talents (See v.21). This shows that the lord values the faithfulness of servants instead of the amount of the effect of their works. Enlightenment in the Word: 1) Concerning the giving of accounts that day, the Lord will see the degree of our faithfulness and whether we have completely used the gifts that are given by the Lord instead of the amount of our works’ effect. 2) The measure of gifts is unrelated to the reward; the gifts that we have received could be inferior to that of others, however, we should not be less faithful than others. 3) What the Lord wants us to be responsible for is faithfulness and therefore we should never envy others who have more gifts or complain that our gifts are fewer.

Matt. 25:24 “‘Then he who had received the one talent came and said, ‘Lord, I knew you to be a hard man, reaping where you have not sown, and gathering where you have not scattered seed.” YLT: “`And he also who hath received the one talent having come, said, Sir, I knew thee, that thou art a hard man, reaping where thou didst not sow, and gathering from whence thou didst not scatter;” Literal Meaning: “I knew you to be a hard man” “Knew” in original means outer and objective knowledge instead of inner and subjective knowledge; “hard” means that one’s heart is as hard as the nether millstone. This servant held that his servant is a severe and harsh man. “ Reaping where you have not sown, and gathering where you have not scattered seed.” This sentence is a common saying used by the ancient farmers: under normal circumstances, sowing should be done first before reaping and then there will be harvest; when thrashing grains, men first thresh grains in the wind and then gather the seeds together. Therefore the whole sentence means that “one wants to gain without paying.” It is just like the pharaoh in Egypt who did not give Israel straw and asked them to hand over bricks as usual (See Exod. 5:7-14). Spiritual Meaning: “he who had received the one talent came.” “Came” indicates to come to the judgment-seat of Christ. This proves that he is not only saved, but also caught up in the clouds, to meet the Lord in the air. Matt. 25:25 “And I was afraid, and went and hid your talent in the ground. Look, there you have what is yours.'” YLT: “and having been afraid, having gone away, I hid thy talent in the earth; lo, thou hast thine own!” Literal Meaning: “I was afraid.” He was afraid that he may lose the money and could not give account in future and therefore he did not dare to use the money. Enlightenment in the Word: 1) Those who are timid------they are afraid of the Lord, men, failure and less effort. They just let the world, sins, the flesh and other earthly persons and things cover up their gifts and consequently they accomplish nothing. 2) We should not serve the Lord passively and we should use the Lord’s gifts actively and positively.

Matt. 25:26 “‘But his lord answered and said to him, ‘You wicked and lazy servant, you knew that I reap where I have not sown, and gather where I have not scattered seed.” YLT: “`And his lord answering said to him, Evil servant, and slothful, thou hadst known that I reap where I did not sow, and I gather whence I did not scatter!” Literal Meaning: “you wicked and lazy servant.” “Wicked and lazy” is in contrast with “good and faithful” (See v.21, 23). “Wicked” indicates that he did not obey the will of the lord and prated against his lord; “lazy” indicates that he lacks works and behaviors and he did not carry out the lord’s commitment. “ You knew that” It did not mean that the Lord admit that the servant’s evaluation of the lord is correct. The lord meant that “since you believed that I am that kind of people, then you should…”. Therefore the lord judges him out of his own mouth (See Luke. 19:22). Enlightenment in the Word: 1) We should know Christ more, lest we may become “wicked” servants in His eyes because of our ignorance. 2) If we have wasted our life and have not lived for the Lord, so that we are barren and unfruitful (See 2Pet. 1:8), we are “lazy” servants. 3) The Lord will judge us out of our own mouths.

Matt. 25:27 “So you ought to have deposited my money with the bankers, and at my coming I would have received back my own with interest.” YLT: “it behoved thee then to put my money to the money-lenders, and having come I had received mine own with increase.” Literal Meaning: “the bankers” is a word in the original. It is transformed from four-foot which is usually seen in the doorway of Greek banks. The bankers were sitting besides small tables to change money (Sees Matt. 21:12). However, “the bankers” do not indicate those who change money in the Holy Temple but those who help businessmen to change money at trading ports. They are small-scale banks at that time and they do the business of deposit and exchange of money. “ My own with interest” “Interest” originally indicates offspring. Here it is transformed to describe the offspring of money, i.e. interest on money loaned (as a produce). Spiritual Meaning: “my money” symbolizes spiritual gifts; “the bankers” symbolizes the church; producing “interest” symbolizes to bear spiritual fruits. “Have deposited my money with the bankers” meant that at least we could let other saints in the church share and use our spiritual gifts, for example: when the church preaches the glad tidings, though we are unable to bear witness or give the message, at least we could bring friends to listen to the glad tidings, pray for the gathering of gospel and etc and in this way we could help others to bear fruits of gospel.

Matt. 25:28 “So take the talent from him, and give it to him who has ten talents.” YLT: “`Take therefore from him the talent, and give to him having the ten talents,”

Matt. 25:29 “‘For to everyone who has, more will be given, and he will have abundance; but from him who does not have, even what he has will be taken away.’” YLT: “for to every one having shall be given, and he shall have overabundance, and from him who is not having, even that which he hath shall be taken from him;” Spiritual Meaning: today everyone who uses gifts and has abundance in the dispensation of the church (“everyone who has”) will receive more gifts (“he will have abundance”) in future in the dispensation of kingdom. However, if someone hides gifts today so that he is barren and unfruitful today, the few gifts that he has today will “be taken away” completely in future. This principle applies to service today: the more you have, the more the Lord will give to you; the moment you begin to stop making progress, what you already have will be taken back. Enlightenment in the Word: 1) Concerning love and other spiritual gifts, the more one loves others, the more love will be given to him and vice versa. 2) “For to everyone who has, more will be given.” This sentence shows the principle of abundance: if we do not detain the abundant Christ and are willing to supply others, as a result of that we will be more abundant. 3) When the Lord comes, the Lord not only judges and punishes men passively but also deals kindly with men and blesses men positively.

Matt. 25:30 “And cast the unprofitable servant into the outer darkness. There will be weeping and gnashing of teeth.” YLT: “and the unprofitable servant cast ye forth to the outer darkness; there shall be the weeping and the gnashing of the teeth.” Meaning of Words: “unprofitable”: useless, worthless, unmeritorious. Literal Meaning: “the unprofitable servant” shows that the servant who did not fulfill his duty is unprofitable to the lord. Spiritual Meaning: “the outer darkness” does not mean the hell (lake of fire) but the realm which is out of the glorious countenance of the Lord; when the Lord comes, the failing believers will be punished by the Lord and even be shut out of the door of the kingdom of a thousand years (See v. 10) and they will be contrite and ponder over their mistakes there (“be weeping and gnashing of teeth”). Enlightenment in the Word: believers who are unwilling to use gifts are unprofitable in the Lord’s sight and they make the Lord suffer loss.

Matt. 25:31 “‘When the Son of Man comes in His glory, and all the holy angels with Him, then He will sit on the throne of His glory.” YLT: “`And whenever the Son of Man may come in his glory, and all the holy messengers with him, then he shall sit upon a throne of his glory;” Literal Meaning: “when the Son of Man comes in His glory” “The Son of Man” is the special title for the Lord in His Kingdom (See Matt. 13:41); this kingdom will be delivered up to God the Father later in the future (See 1Cor. 15:24) and it will become the kingdom of God. “ He will sit on the throne of His glory.” This paragraph of the scriptures obviously records that the Lord sits on “the throne” for judgment. According to the records of the Bible, there are at least four kinds of judgments after the Lord comes: a) Judgment before the judgment-seat of Christ: it is before the kingdom of a thousand years and it is to determine whether one is qualified to enter the heavenly part of the kingdom of a thousand years. Therefore the targets of this judgment are believes in the church (See 2Cor. 5:10; 1Pet. 4:17) that include both living and dead ones (See 1Thess. 4:16-17). b) Judgment before “the throne of Christ’s glory”: it is also before the kingdom of a thousand years. It is to determine whether one is qualified to be the earthly people of the kingdom of a thousand years and therefore the targets of this judgment are all the living nations when the Lord comes (See Acts. 10:42; 2Tim. 4:1), i.e. Gentile unbelievers (See Jer. 3:17). As for the Jewish unbelievers, they will also be judged (See Matt. 19:28). The result will determine that who is able to inherit the kingdom of Messiah on earth (See Is. 60:10-12; Zech. 14:16-18). c) Judgment before “the great white throne”: it is after the kingdom of a thousand years and before the new heaven and the new earth. It is to determine who will suffer the punishment of the eternal fire and its targets are dead ones who do not partake in the first resurrection (See Rev. 20:5-6). They will be judged after resurrection and then be cast into the lake of fire and this is the second death (See Rev. 20:11-15). d) Judgment towards the fallen angels who have committed sins in the last day: in this judgment the overcoming Christians will be Judges (See 1Cor. 6:3; Jude. 6; 2Pet. 2:4). Enlightenment in the Word: today the Lord’s throne is “the throne of grace” and therefore we are able to come unto it and find grace to help in time of need (See Heb. 4:16); however, in the future it is “the throne of His glory” which is holy and it is to execute judgments.

Matt. 25:32 “All the nations will be gathered before Him, and He will separate them one from another, as a shepherd divides his sheep from the goats.” YLT: “and gathered together before him shall be all the nations, and he shall separate them from one another, as the shepherd doth separate the sheep from the goats,” The Background: in the land of Palestine, sheep and goats are usually fed together during the day, however, they are divided at night because sheep’s abilities to defend the cold are weaker than that of goats and the sheep should pass the night in warn places. Moreover, sheep are gentle by nature and goats are malicious and pugnacious by nature. Literal Meaning: “all the nations will be gathered before Him” “All the nations” are “Gentiles” or “people of all nations” in the original who are different from the Jews and believers. When the Lord comes, He will gather all the Gentile believers to the throne of His glory to be judged. “He will separate them one from another.” The judgment of the Lord’s second coming is to “separate” men into two kinds---good and bad. It is so both to believers (See v.2, 21, 23, 26) and the world. “ As a shepherd divides his sheep from the goats.” In the Bible, there are three kinds of sheep: a) believers (See John. 10:11; Heb. 13:20); b) the Jews (See Ps. 80:1; Jer. 23:1-4; 31:10); c) the Gentiles (See Ps. 100:1-3). The sheep and goats here indicate Gentile unbelievers.

Matt. 25:33 “And He will set the sheep on His right hand, but the goats on the left.” YLT: “and he shall set the sheep indeed on his right hand, and the goats on the left.” Literal Meaning: “set the sheep on His right hand” “Right” indicates the side of honor and blessing (See 1Kings. 2:19; Ps. 45:9).

Matt. 25:34 “Then the King will say to those on His right hand, ‘Come, you blessed of My Father, inherit the kingdom prepared for you from the foundation of the world:” YLT: “`Then shall the king say to those on his right hand, Come ye, the blessed of my Father, inherit the reign that hath been prepared for you from the foundation of the world;” Literal Meaning: “you blessed of My Father” “My Father” is the father of the Lord instead of their father; “blessed” indicates the blessing on earth, i.e. the blessing that God had predestinated to give men when He created the word (See Gen. 1:28) instead of the heavenly blessing of believers (See Eph. 1:3). Men had lost the blessing of creation that God had given men and now God gives it to the righteous that the sheep stand for again. “Inherit the kingdom prepared for you from the foundation of the world.” They are still people on the earthly part in the future in the kingdom of a thousand years and enjoy the kingdom which is prepared for them from the foundation of the world (See Rev. 12:5; Zech. 8:20-23). Enlightenment in the Word: 1) The world who are as gentle as sheep walk by nature and their hearts of sense of right and wrong work (See Rom. 2:14-15). Their whole lives are in general restrained, managed (shepherded) by God and therefore they are blessed by God. 2) If we have done something good and profitable, these are the reasons of God’s blessings.

Matt. 25:35 “for I was hungry and you gave Me food; I was thirsty and you gave Me drink; I was a stranger and you took Me in;” YLT: “for I did hunger, and ye gave me to eat; I did thirst, and ye gave me to drink; I was a stranger, and ye received me;” Spiritual Meaning: “I” here is the same with the “I” in Acts. 9:4. It indicates the expanded body of Christ and therefore it includes all the children of God. The Lord Jesus is a Jewish according to the flesh and the expanded “I” also includes the Jews. Enlightenment in the Word: 1) The Lord suffers the pain that we suffer with us together and He is able to feel our sufferings. 2) Every detail that we do on the children of God will be remembered by the Lord. 3) How we treat others actually becomes the basis to divide whether one is good or not. Therefore we should not neglect men that we meet everyday (we may meet someone only one time in all our life) at will (See Heb. 13:2).

Matt. 25:36 “I was naked and you clothed Me; I was sick and you visited Me; I was in prison and you came to Me.'” YLT: “naked, and ye put around me; I was infirm, and ye looked after me; in prison I was, and ye came unto me.” Literal Meaning: “hungry, thirsty and a stranger” (See v.35) and “naked, sick and in prison” here all describe the pain that the Jews and believers suffer during the period of the Great Tribulation.

Matt. 25:37 “‘Then the righteous will answer Him, saying, ‘Lord, when did we see You hungry and feed You, or thirsty and give You drink?” YLT: “`Then shall the righteous answer him, saying, Lord, when did we see thee hungering, and we nourished? or thirsting, and we gave to drink?” Enlightenment in the Word: 1) The true good works are unconscious and they are the outpouring of love and only these are of great value before the Lord. 2) Anyone who is full of selves and thinks that he has done many things for the Lord will contrarily be blamed by the Lord, “I never knew (praised) you” (See Matt. 7:22-23).

Matt. 25:38 “When did we see You a stranger and take You in, or naked and clothe You?” YLT: “and when did we see thee a stranger, and we received? or naked, and we put around?”

Matt. 25:39 “Or when did we see You sick, or in prison, and come to You?'” YLT: “and when did we see thee infirm, or in prison, and we came unto thee?” Enlightenment in the Word: it shows that our good works such as giving others foods and drinks, clothing others, taking others in and coming to those who are sick or in prison are justified by the Lord. The Lord calls those who do these things “the righteous”.

Matt. 25:40 “And the King will answer and say to them, ‘Assuredly, I say to you, inasmuch as you did it to one of the least of these My brethren, you did it to Me.'” YLT: “`And the king answering, shall say to them, Verily I say to you, Inasmuch as ye did [it] to one of these my brethren the least to me ye did [it].” Spiritual Meaning: “one of the least of these My brethren” “Brethren” indicate believers (See Matt. 12:48-50) and the Jews (See Ps. 22:22-23). Enlightenment in the Word: 1) Therefore take heed that we despise not one of these little ones (See Matt. 18:10). 2) When we do any good work to brothers, we should keep the attitude of doing it on the Lord and should not hope for the reward of thanksgiving from brother. 3) Only through the manifestation of behavior of loving brothers will men be able to truly comprehend the love of God. The reward of kingdom of heaven is to those who are willing to serve others in disregard of any recompense. 4) No matter how little or weak a believer is, the Lord is able to enter his feelings and feels as though he experiences the same. How sympathetic He is (See Heb. 4:15)!

Matt. 25:41 “‘Then He will also say to those on the left hand, ‘Depart from Me, you cursed, into the everlasting fire prepared for the devil and his angels:” YLT: “Then shall he say also to those on the left hand, Go ye from me, the cursed, to the fire, the age-during, that hath been prepared for the Devil and his messengers;” Literal Meaning: “you cursed” “You cursed” indicates those who have been condemned and they are exactly opposite to “you blessed” (See v.34) (See Num. 24:9). “Into the everlasting fire prepared for the devil and his angels” “His angels” indicate the angels that fell with Satan (See 2Pet. 2:4; Jude. 6; Rev. 12:7). The end of the evil unbelievers is the lake of fire which never quenches (See Rev. 20:10, 14-15; 21:8). Enlightenment in the Word: 1) What God has prepared for men is originally blessing instead of curse; the thoughts that God thinks towards us are thoughts of peace and not of evil (See Jer. 29:11). If men bring about curse and misfortune, they suffer from their own actions. 2) The lake of fire is not originally prepared for men. However, if men adhere obstinately to errors and follow the devil and its angels to rebel God, their end is to suffer pain of the lake of fire with them.

Matt. 25:42 “for I was hungry and you gave Me no food; I was thirsty and you gave Me no drink;” YLT: “for I did hunger, and ye gave me not to eat; I did thirst, and ye gave me not to drink;” Enlightenment in the Word: they are condemned because they did not concern others’ bitterness and it shows the importance to feel compassion for others. For he shall have judgment without mercy, that has shown no mercy; and mercy rejoices against judgment (See James. 2:12).

Matt. 25:43 “I was a stranger and you did not take Me in, naked and you did not clothe Me, sick and in prison and you did not visit Me.'” YLT: “a stranger I was, and ye did not receive me; naked, and ye put not around me; infirm, and in prison, and ye did not look after me.”

Matt. 25:44 “‘Then they also will answer Him, saying, ‘Lord, when did we see You hungry or thirsty or a stranger or naked or sick or in prison, and did not minister to You?'” YLT: “`Then shall they answer, they also, saying, Lord, when did we see thee hungering, or thirsting, or a stranger, or naked, or infirm, or in prison, and we did not minister to thee?” Literal Meaning: the previous righteous men do good works unconsciously and the evil men here fell nothing when seeing others’ bitterness; one is unself and the other do not concern others and this is the difference. The words of v.31-46 in this chapter are specially spoken concerning how unbelievers of the world treat Christians and the Jews in the Great Tribulation.

Matt. 25:45 “Then He will answer them, saying, ‘Assuredly, I say to you, inasmuch as you did not do it to one of the least of these, you did not do it to Me.'” YLT: “`Then shall he answer them, saying, Verily I say to you, Inasmuch as ye did [it] not to one of these, the least, ye did [it] not to me.” Enlightenment in the Word: 1) The principle of the world is that the more one does, the more mistakes he may make; the less one does, the fewer mistakes he may make; if one does nothing, he won’t make a mistake. However, the spiritual principle is that if one does not do what he should do, he makes a glaring mistake. 2) Those who think themselves that they are of spirit and are unwilling to take reckless action sometimes are too cautious. Even when the Lord has moved him again and again, he still hesitates to move forward and we have to know that this also offends the Lord.

Matt. 25:46 “And these will go away into everlasting punishment, but the righteous into eternal life.’” YLT: “And these shall go away to punishment age-during, but the righteous to life age-during.’” Spiritual Meaning: “these will go away into everlasting punishment” “everlasting punishment” indicates to enter into the everlasting fire (See v.41), i.e. to be cast into the lake of fire (See Rev. 20:15). “But the righteous into eternal life.” The righteous who do not believe in the Lord still partake in the new heaven and the new earth. However, they are different from believers: believers “have” eternal life and they “enter into” eternal life. Having eternal life is that life enters into them; entering into eternal life is that they enter into the realm of eternal life. Those who enter into eternal life do not have eternal life in them and therefore they still need the leaves of the tree for the healing (See Rev. 22:2).

The Typification of Ten Virgins I. Both the wise and foolish virgins typify Christians: A. They are all virgins from first to last (v.1, 11)------sinners are adulterous women in the Lord’s eyes (See John. 8:3-7). B. They all take their lamps with them (v.3-4)------sinners are unable to shine to bear witness (See Matt. 5:14-16). C. There is oil in their lamps, otherwise, the foolish virgins would not say, “our lamps are going out.” (v.8)------the Holy Spirit (oil) is not in sinners. D. They both went out to meet the bridegroom (v.1, 6)------sinners do not “meet” the Lord and they are “gathered” by the Lord before the seat of judgment (See v.32). E. They arose when they heard a cry at midnight (v.6, See 1Thess. 4:16)------they both partake in the first resurrection; the dead sinners will wait and then resurrect and be judged after the kingdom of a thousand years (See Rev. 20:12). F. They both arose and trimmed their lamps (v.7)------trimming lamps is making preparations for oil and sinners do not need to prepare. II. The five wise virgins typify the overcoming Christians: A. They took oil in their vessels during their lifetime (v.4)------they not only have the Holy Spirit in their spirits but also let their whole persons (vessels) be baptized with the Holy Spirit (See Rom. 9:21, 23-24). B. They all went in with the bridegroom to the wedding (v.10)------they all partake in the marriage supper of the Lamb (See Rev. 19:9). III. The five foolish virgins typify the failing Christians: A. They took their lamps and took no oil with them during their lifetime (v.3)------they are only born from above and have the dwelling Holy Spirit in them (See Rom. 8:9) and they have not been filled with the Holy Spirit (See Eph. 5:18). B. They went to buy oil until the Lord comes (v.9-10)------they pay price to take oil after they have arisen. C. They are shut out of the door (v.11-12)------they do not partake in the marriage supper of the Lamb.

The Typification of Three Kinds of Servants I. The servants who had received different amount of money all typify Christians: A. They are all servants (v.14)------servants mean “slaves” and they are bought with the precious blood by the Lord to belong to Himself (See 1Cor. 7:22-23). B. The Lord delivered his goods to them (v.14)------those who have not been saved are unworthy to receive goods of the Lord. C. The Lord gave them money (v.15)------those who have not been saved cannot have spiritual gifts. II. Servants who had received five talents and two talents typify the overcoming Christians: A. They both traded with them (v.16-17)------they diligently use spiritual gifts. B. They both made another money (v.16-17)------they completely use spiritual gifts. C. They both were praised by the Lord (v.21, v.23)------they receive the reward of kingdom from the Lord. D. The only difference is that the amount of money they made is different (v.16- 17)------the measure of gifts that they have received and the greatness of the effect of their works are different. III. The servant who had received one talent typifies the failing Christians: A. He misunderstood the Lord as a hard man (v.24)------though the Lord is severe, He is very merciful. B. He hid the money because he “was afraid” (v.25)------he wastes spiritual gifts in the world. C. He was blamed as “wicked and lazy” and the “unprofitable” servant (v.26, 30)------the servant with wrong intention and lazy behaviors is unprofitable to the Lord’s goods. D. He was cast into the outer darkness and there will be weeping and gnashing (v.30)------he will be punished in the dispensation of kingdom.

The Typification of Sheep and Goats I. When the Lord comes, He will gather the nations who are alive and execute judgment over them (v.31-32). II. Sheep typify the righteous and they inherit the kingdom prepared for them from the foundation of the world and enter into the realm of eternal life because they treat one of the least of the Lord’s brothers well (v.34-40, 46b) III. The goats typify evil men and they enter the everlasting fire prepared for the devil and his angels because they lack love to one of the least of the Lord’s brothers (v.41-46a).

Matthew Chapter Twenty-six

The King was forsaken finally I. The prologue: A. The Lord’s foreknowledge (v.1-2). B. Men’s premeditation (v.3-5). II. The evaluation of the Lord’s being forsaken: A. She “wasted” three hundred denarii for Him------Mary anointed the Lord (v.6- 13). B. He “betrayed” Him for thirty pieces of silver------Judas betrayed the Lord (v.14-16). III. The sign of the Lord’s being forsaken: A. The feast of the Passover (v.17-25). B. The bread and the cup symbolize the body and blood of the Lord (v.26-30). IV. The loneliness of the king when He was forsaken: A. He was sorrowful for “the cup” (being forsaken by God the Father) that He was about to drink (v.31-39). B. His disciples were unable to watch with Him because they were weak in the flesh (v.40-46). V. The king was forsaken by leaders of Judaism: A. He was taken (v.47-56). B. He was judged and humiliated (v.57-68). VI. The king was forsaken by the disciples------Peter denied Him three times (v.69-75). II. Verse by Verse commentary

Matt. 26:1 “Now it came to pass, when Jesus had finished all these sayings, that He said to His disciples,” YLT: “And it came to pass, when Jesus finished all these words, he said to his disciples,” Literal Meaning: “all these sayings” indicate the prophecies that He had said to His disciples concerning His second coming and the rewards and punishments of kingdom (See Matt. 24:3-25:51).

Matt. 26:2 “‘You know that after two days is the Passover, and the Son of Man will be delivered up to be crucified.’” YLT: “`Ye have known that after two days the passover cometh, and the Son of Man is delivered up to be crucified.’” The Background: “Passover” is the day on which God saved Israel from the bondage of Egypt. At that night they killed lambs and spread the blood on the lintel and the two side posts and they were delivered from being killed by God’s angels (see Exod. 12:21-23). Spiritual Meaning: lambs should be delivered up and killed on the Passover originally and now the Son of Man was delivered and crucified. This shows that Christ crucified is the lamb of the Passover (See 1Cor. 5:7) who has been killed for us in order to take away our sin (See John. 1:29). Enlightenment in the Word: 1) After the Lord had talked about the reality of the kingdom, He mentioned that He would be killed on the Passover. It shows that cross is the necessary way to bring in the reality of kingdom. 2) The lamb of Passover is the type of Christ. And in like manner, all ceremonies of the Old Testament are the shadow of Christ (See Col. 2:16-17); Christ is the reality and meaning of all sacred things.

Matt. 26:3 “Then the chief priests, the scribes, and the elders of the people assembled at the palace of the high priest, who was called Caiaphas,” YLT: “Then were gathered together the chief priests, and the scribes, and the elders of the people, to the court of the chief priest who was called Caiaphas;” Literal Meaning: “assembled at the palace of the high priest, who was called Caiaphas” “Caiaphas” was the high priest that same year (A.D. 18-36), and he was also the son-in-law to Annas who had been high priest before (See John. 18:13).

Matt. 26:4 “and plotted to take Jesus by trickery and kill Him.” YLT: “and they consulted together that they might take Jesus by guile, and kill [him],” Enlightenment in the Word: 1) Unexpectedly, the high priest and the elders of the people were utilized by Satan and they wanted to kill the Lord Jesus; Satan utilized not only the common worldly sinners but also clergymen. It shows that the whole world lies in the wicked (1John. 5:19). 2) Without the participation of men, the type of the lamb of the Passover still cannot be fulfilled in the Lord. Those who rejected the Lord were used by God to help Himself to fulfill His plan.

Matt. 26:5 “But they said, ‘Not during the feast, lest there be an uproar among the people.’” YLT: “and they said, `Not in the feast, that there may not be a tumult among the people.’” Literal Meaning: “during the feast” indicates the period which starts from the supper of the Passover and includes the following seven days of the feast of the unleavened bread (See Exod. 12:17-18). “ Lest there be an uproar among the people” During the period of the Passover, thousands upon thousands Jews in all parts went to Jerusalem to feast and the population rose sharply and suddenly and this makes it difficult to keep the order. Their words also show that they admitted that the Lord Jesus had enjoyed popular support. Enlightenment in the Word: 1) Though men had not planed to kill the Lord on the Passover, later their plan were failed (See John. 19:14-16); God’s words must be fulfilled. 2) The Lord Jesus is the Lamb of God, who takes away the sin of the world (See John. 1:29) and was killed on the Passover. 3) All men’s plans that are beside the will of God will be falsehood (See Ps. 119:118). Matt. 26:6 “And when Jesus was in Bethany at the house of Simon the leper,” YLT: “And Jesus having been in Bethany, in the house of Simon the leper,” Spiritual Meaning: “Bethany” typifies the church (See the spiritual meaning in Matt. 21:17); “leprosy” typifies sin; “the leper” typifies the sinner. Enlightenment in the Word: 1) Believers in the church were originally sinners, however, they have been cleansed by the precious blood. Therefore the Lord likes to dwell in their places and sit at the table with them. 2) Anyone who truly knows himself as a sinner will thank the Lord, love the Lord, open his house to the Lord, receive the Lord and dedicate treasure to Him.

Matt. 26:7 “a woman came to Him having an alabaster flask of very costly fragrant oil, and she poured it on His head as He sat at the table.” YLT: “there came to him a woman having an alabaster box of ointment, very precious, and she poured on his head as he is reclining (at meat).” The Background: anointment of oil is a kind of ceremony to show welcome and honor in the society at that time and usually the oil was used to anoint the head and feet (See John. 12:3; Luke. 7:38, 46). Literal Meaning: “a woman” this woman is Mary (See John. 12:3). Spiritual Meaning: “alabaster flask” symbolizes “the outward man” of a believer; “fragrant oil” symbolizes “the inner man” of a believer and the virtue that is manifested from the inner heart. Mary symbolizes all those who love the Lord. They, seeing that Christ was crucified for us, are deeply moved and therefore dedicate all to the Lord and pour their whole persons on the Lord. Enlightenment in the Word: 1) The alabaster flask must be broken and then the fragrant oil will be able to be poured out (See Mark. 14:3); if the outward men were delivered unto death, the inward treasure will be manifested (See 2Cor. 4:7-16). 2) Once the fragrant oil was poured out, the whole house was full of the fragrance; anyone dedicates all to the Lord for the sake of loving the Lord is a witness of fragrance to others who are around him. 3) Here the Bible only mentioned “a woman” and did not mention her name. This tells us that any believer could do what this woman does and the problem is that whether we know the preciousness of the Lord as her. 4) Many people need the salvation of the Lord instead of the Lord Himself; many people value the Lord’s blessings and do not value the Lord Himself. What do we seek? All things that are beside the Lord? Or the Lord Himself?

Matt. 26:8 “But when His disciples saw it, they were indignant, saying, ‘Why this waste?” YLT: “And having seen [it], his disciples were much displeased, saying, `To what purpose [is] this waste?” Enlightenment in the Word: 1) Those who truly love the Lord usually do something which seems to be “excessive” (“why this…”) in the sight of others, however, we should not please men and we should please the Lord (See Gal. 1:10). 2) If men lack the knowledge of the Lord the Savior, they will think that the dedication to the Lord is a “waste”. However we would rather let others say that we are “waste” than let the Lord say that we are “wicked and lazy” (See Matt. 25:26).

Matt. 26:9 “For this fragrant oil might have been sold for much and given to the poor.’” YLT: “for this ointment could have been sold for much, and given to the poor.’” Literal Meaning: “this fragrant oil might have been sold for much” The fragrant oil is worth three hundred denarii (See John. 12:5). It is not only costly (See v.7) but also “very precious” (See Mark. 14:3). “ Given to the poor” This is the good thing that men should do when they return to Jerusalem to feast and indeed it is also what believers are forward to do (See Gal. 2:10). Enlightenment in the Word: 1) It is a “waste” that the fragrant oil was poured on the Lord and it is not so if it was given to the poor. In the eyes of many believers, the Lord is not equal to “the poor”. 2) How easy it is for believers to let some holy and spiritual reason usurp the position in our hearts that the Lord deserves to have. 3) Today in the church, there are a group of people who, like Mary, give all to Christ and hold that Christ is worthy of everything. However, there are another group of people who take “pragmatism” into consideration and hold that they should pay attention to economic benefits in everything, otherwise it is a “waste” or ruin. 4) Few believers are attracted by the Lord’s love and the majority of believers walk by rationality and they do not approve things that others do by love. 5) Many times, reason comes and loves is out; the moment economy assumes leadership the will of the Lord will bring up the rear. 6) Those who are truly touched by the Lord’s love will only regard the Lord’s pleasure and they disregard right or wrong, gain or loss and success or failure. Therefore they are willing to do the things that are unprofitable in the eyes of others. 7) If we could see things from the view of loving the Lord, nothing that is done for the Lord is unworthy and none of the money which is spent for the Lord is waste. 8) Today many of our works are done not for pleasing the Lord (anointing the Lord) but for the needs of works (giving to the poor). It shows that many works in the church today seem to be for the Lord but actually they are not.

Matt. 26:10 “But when Jesus was aware of it, He said to them, ‘Why do you trouble the woman? For she has done a good work for Me.” YLT: “And Jesus having known, said to them, `Why do ye give trouble to the woman? for a good work she wrought for me;” Enlightenment in the Word: 1) The Lord’s view is different from ours------men said that it was “waste”, however, the Lord, unexpectedly, said that, “it is a good work”. 2) We should not care about others’ views too much in our works. What’s important is our evaluation towards the Lord: whether He is worthy of our works. 3) Though we may be misunderstood by others for the things that we do for the sake of loving the Lord, however, the Lord is able to know our hearts and He Himself will clear up everything for us. 4) As long as the Lord says that, “it is a good work”, others’ talking is unimportant. Then no matter how others “trouble” us, we should be glad and rejoice.

Matt. 26:11 “For you have the poor with you always, but Me you do not have always.” YLT: “for the poor always ye have with you, and me ye have not always;” Enlightenment in the Word: 1) Believers should learn to discern what one has “always” and what one does “not have always”; otherwise, we may lose chances that we do not always have because of chances that we always have. 2) The common trouble of those who are of the Lord is that they are too busy to get rid of things for “the poor” (for example: the targets of glad tidings, brothers who are offended or fall, works of social welfare, works in the church and etc.) and neglect the Lord Himself.

Matt. 26:12 “For in pouring this fragrant oil on My body, she did it for My burial.” YLT: “for she having put this ointment on my body for my burial she did [it].” The Background: the manner of the ancient Jews for burial is using fragrant oil to anoint the body of the dead and winding it in linen clothes (See Mark. 16:1; John. 19:40). Literal Meaning: Mary must know that He was about to be crucified (See v.2) from His words and knew that the days were not long. Therefore she seized a chance to show her grateful thanks to His death while He was alive. Enlightenment in the Word: 1) Mary poured all her good things on the Lord because she had received the revelation. We must have the revelation first and then we are able to love Him with good love. 2) Mary Bethany seized a chance to anoint the Lord before His death; Mary Magdalene wanted to anoint the Lord after His the Lord’s death, however, she did not have the chance to do so (See Mark. 16:1-6). We should seize chances to love and serve the Lord.

Matt. 26:13 “Assuredly, I say to you, wherever this gospel is preached in the whole world, what this woman has done will also be told as a memorial to her.’” YLT: “Verily I say to you, Wherever this good news may be proclaimed in the whole world, what this [one] did shall also be spoken of for a memorial of her.’” Literal Meaning: “this gospel is preached” indicates to preach that how the Lord Jesus loved sinners and even poured out His life; “what this woman had done will also be told” indicates to state how she loved the Lord Jesus and also poured her life on the Lord. “Wherever this gospel is preached in the whole world, also…” It means that wherever preaching the gospel, there must be someone who is touched by the Lord’s love and thus he loves the Lord recklessly. Enlightenment in the Word: 1) For the love of Christ constrained us; because we thus judge, that He died for all, that we who should not henceforth live unto ourselves, but unto Him which died for us and rose again (See 2Cor. 5:14-15). 2) Preaching the gospel is to make men believe in the Lord Jesus and it is for men’s gain. Stating what this woman has done is the Lord’s gain. Salvation is both for men and Christ. 3) Salvation must bring in dedication; the salvation that has not brought in dedication is not complete. 4) Gospel is that the Lord is men’s satisfaction and rest and anointing the Lord is that men are the Lord’s satisfaction and rest; we need the Lord and the Lord also needs us.

Matt. 26:14 “Then one of the twelve, called Judas Iscariot, went to the chief priests” YLT: “Then one of the twelve, who is called Judas Iscariot, having gone unto the chief priests, said,” Literal Meaning: “then” means the time when Mary poured the fragrant oil on the Lord Jesus, showing that Mary was in contrast to Judas. One loved the Lord and the other betrayed Him.

Matt. 26:15 “and said, ‘What are you willing to give me if I deliver Him to you?’ And they counted out to him thirty pieces of silver.” YLT: “`What are ye willing to give me, and I will deliver him up to you?` and they weighed out to him thirty silverlings,” Literal Meaning: “thirty pieces of silver” Every piece of silver weighs one shekel and the whole is thirty shekel which is equal to an evaluation of a slave (See Exod. 21:32). Enlightenment in the Word: 1) Mary did not stint the fragrant oil which costs thirty denarii because she loved the Lord; Judas sold the Lord for thirty pieces of sliver because he loved money. Whether one acts as Mary or Judas depends on whether he loves money or the Lord (See John. 12:4-6). 2) In the eyes of Judas and the chief priests the Lord Jesus was like a slave who is worthy of thirty pieces of silver. If our evaluation towards the Lord is the same with them and we regard the Lord as usual, we may sell Him out in some circumstances (for example: someone denies the Lord in order to save his own life and someone sells truth and witness for status, fame and gain and etc). 3) Apparently, Judas sold the Lord out for thirty pieces of silver; but actually, he sold out his own soul for thirty piece of silver (See Matt. 27:3-5; Acts. 1:18). 4) Judas sold himself out to the devil for thirty pieces of silver; Mary dedicated herself to the Lord in the fragrant oil which is worthy of thirty denarii. 5) Judas made merchandise of Christ; anyone who supposes that gain is godliness (1Tim. 6:5) and barters Christ’s grace for his own gain falls in the principle of Judas.

Matt. 26:16 “So from that time he sought opportunity to betray Him.” YLT: “and from that time he was seeking a convenient season to deliver him up.” Enlightenment in the Word: 1) Mary “seized an opportunity” to give herself to the Lord. Judas “sought opportunity” to deliver the Lord to the power of darkness. 2) “Seize the opportunity” is to cherish the time (See Eph. 5:16). However, “sought opportunity” is to waste time.

Matt. 26:17 “Now on the first day of the Feast of the Unleavened Bread the disciples came to Jesus, saying to Him, ‘Where do You want us to prepare for You to eat the Passover?’” YLT: “And on the first [day] of the unleavened food came the disciples near to Jesus, saying to him, `Where wilt thou [that] we may prepare for thee to eat the passover?’” The Background: there are seven days in the Feast of the Unleavened Bread. It starts from the sunset of the fourteenth day of the first month of the Jewish calendar (the month Nisan) to the sunset of the twenty-first day. “The first day of the Feast of the Unleavened Bread” indicates the night of the fourteenth day of the first month (Thursday) to six o’clock in the next evening, i.e. the Passover (See Exod. 12:15-20). “The Feast of the Passover” The Jews started to kill the lamb of the Passover in the afternoon of the fourteenth day of the first month and at nightfall each family ate the Feast of the Passover together. Spiritual Meaning: “the Unleavened Bread” typifies that Christ is the unleavened bread of sincerity and truth and He makes those who believe in Him be a new lump and live a holy life (See 1Cor. 5:7-8); “the Feast of the Unleavened Bread” typifies that Christ is our enjoyment of life which gives us strength to walk on the heavenly way (See Exod. 12:8-11). Enlightenment in the Word: 1) On one hand, we must cleanse ourselves (“the first day of the Unleavened Bread”) and then we are able to come to the Lord (See Heb. 12:14) and enjoy Him as the provision of our life. 2) On the other, we must enjoy the Lord as the provision of our life (“where… to eat the Passover”) and then we are able to live a holy life before God (“the Unleavened Bread” extends for seven days).

Matt. 26:18 “And He said, ‘Go into the city to a certain man, and say to him, ‘The Teacher says, ‘My time is at hand; I will keep the Passover at your house with My disciples.’” YLT: “and he said, `Go away to the city, unto such a one, and say to him, The Teacher saith, My time is nigh; near thee I keep the passover, with my disciples;’” Literal Meaning: “go to a certain man” According to the research of Bible scholars, “a certain man” may be the father or mother of Mark (the author of the Gospel of Mark) (See Mark. 14:12-16); however, the Bible did not directly show us who it was, indicating that we should know that everything is arranged by God and God Himself has prepared the feast of the Passover. “ My time is at hand.” It indicates that the time that the Lord Jesus was crucified was about to come (See John. 7:6, 8, 30; 8:20). “ I will keep the Passover at your house.” “Your house” may be the house where one hundred and twenty disciples gathered together and prayed before the Pentecost (See Luke. 22:12; Acts. 1:13-15) and men in later ages called the house as “the house of Mark”. Enlightenment in the Word: 1) The Lord is the lord of all and He is able to dominate everything to work for Him (See Matt. 17:27; 21:2-3). 2) The Lord had left for Himself many people who loved and served Him (See Rom. 11:4) and therefore we should not see the outward appearance of things and we should trust the Lord absolutely------He Himself must have prepared everything.

Matt. 26:19 “So the disciples did as Jesus had directed them; and they prepared the Passover.” YLT: “and the disciples did as Jesus appointed them, and prepared the passover.” Enlightenment in the Word: as long as we listen to the Lord’s “direction”, we will enjoy Him as “the Passover”------the provision of spiritual life.

Matt. 26:20 “When evening had come, He sat down with the twelve.” YLT: “And evening having come, he was reclining (at meat) with the twelve,” Spiritual Meaning: the Lord “sat down” with the disciples, symbolizing that the Lord has fellowship with the disciples and shares Himself to them (See 1Cor. 10:16-22).

Matt. 26:21 “Now as they were eating, He said, ‘Assuredly, I say to you, one of you will betray Me.’” YLT: “and while they are eating, he said, `Verily I say to you, that one of you shall deliver me up.’” Literal Meaning: the purpose of the Lord’s word is to hope that Judas could pull back before it is too late and He did not want to see him perish. Actually, the council would also arrest Jesus without the help of Judas and they only wanted to find an “opportunity” when the multitudes were absent.

Matt. 26:22 “And they were exceedingly sorrowful, and each of them began to say to Him, ‘Lord, is it I?’” YLT: “And being grieved exceedingly, they began to say to him, each of them, `Is it I, Sir?’” Enlightenment in the Word: selling out the Lord------supposing gain is godliness------is the thing that makes those who are of the Lord exceedingly sorrowful.

Matt. 26:23 “He answered and said, ‘He who dipped his hand with Me in the dish will betray Me.” YLT: “And he answering said, `He who did dip with me the hand in the dish, he will deliver me up;” The Background: “he who dipped his hand with Me” On the Passover of the Jews, every one was reunited and they shared mutton, bread, bitter herbs and other food together; during the dinner, there was a plate of sauce which is boiled by fruits, vinegar and etc. Everyone took a small piece of bread (or meat sandwich) and dipped into the sauce in the plate. According to customs at that time, when someone had dinner with others, it meant to state that, “you are my friend and I will never do something that hurts you.” Enlightenment in the Word: 1) The Lord obviously knew that Judas was about to betray Him. But He still dipped His hand with him, showing that how tolerant and merciful He is. 2) Today in the church, those with whom we have the closest fellowship may become the drastic opposers.

Matt. 26:24 “The Son of Man indeed goes just as it is written of Him, but woe to that man by whom the Son of Man is betrayed! It would have been good for that man if he had not been born.’” YLT: “the Son of Man doth indeed go, as it hath been written concerning him, but wo to that man through whom the Son of Man is delivered up! good it were for him if that man had not been born.’” Enlightenment in the Word: 1) God is able to use positive man to fulfill His will and He is also able to use negative man (Judas) to facilitate His will; however, we would rather be “vessels” which were made by firewood than the firewood which were used to make vessels. 2) What the Lord takes care about is not His own safety but the soul of the one who betrayed Him.

Matt. 26:25 “Then Judas, who was betraying Him, answered and said, ‘Rabbi, is it I?’ He said to him, ‘You have said it.’” YLT: “And Judas he who delivered him up answering said, `Is it I, Rabbi?’ He saith to him, `Thou hast said.’” Literal Meaning: “Rabbi, is it I?” “Rabbi” is the common wording used by students to call teachers; please note that Judas never called Jesus the Lord. “You have said it” is alse “what you said is right”.

Matt. 26:26 “And as they were eating, Jesus took bread, blessed and broke it, and gave it to the disciples and said, ‘Take, eat; this is My body.’” YLT: “And while they were eating, Jesus having taken the bread, and having blessed, did brake, and was giving to the disciples, and said, `Take, eat, this is my body;’” The Background: in the Feast of the Passover, usually the householder was responsible to break the bread. When breaking the bread, the householder took the bread in his hand and said, “This is the bread of suffering that our ancestors had eaten in Egypt” which means that “the bread in the hand” represents “the bread of that day”. Literal Meaning: “this is My body.” “This is” indicates that this represents or this means. Spiritual Meaning: “bread” symbolizes the body of the Lord Jesus; “broke it” symbolizes that His body was rent for us on the cross; “eat” symbolizes to share the being of Christ. According to other records in the Bible, at this time, Judas who had betrayed the Lord had gone out and He was not present (See John. 13:26-30). From that time, the Lord set His desk (the New Testament) to replace the Feast of the Passover (the Old Testament), directly indicating that He is our true Passover (See 1Cor. 5:7). Enlightenment in the Word: 1) Christ was “broken” for us and gave His holy life to us so that we are able to share His life (“Take, eat.”) by this and we will become a mysterious body (See 1Cor. 12:17, 27). 2) The Lord gives Himself to us and what do we give to Him? 3) Since it is the communion of the blood of Christ and the body of Christ (See 1Cor. 10:16-17) and therefore we should be bound up with each other and take care of each other (See 1Cor. 12:12-27).

Matt. 26:27 “Then He took the cup, and gave thanks, and gave it to them, saying, ‘Drink from it, all of you.” YLT: “and having taken the cup, and having given thanks, he gave to them, saying, `Drink ye of it all;” The Background: according to the manner of eating the supper of the Passover of the Jews, they eat bitter herbs before eating the unleavened bread and also give the cup to each other and this cup symbolizes “the cup of pain”; when they eat the unleavened bread and mutton, they give the cup to each other again and this cup symbolizes “the cup of blessing”. Spiritual Meaning: “cup” symbolizes the “portion” that we deserve before God. In Adam, what a sinner deserves is “the cup of God’s wrath” (See Rev. 14:10). However, the Lord Jesus had drunk the cup (See John. 18:11). Therefore the nature of the cup has changed from “the cup of pain” to “the cup of blessing” (See 1Cor. 10:16; Ps. 23:5). The blood of the Lord shed on the cross made the sins of those who believe in Him be remitted and from then on all blessing of God and even Himself become the portion of our cup (See Ps. 16:5). Therefore it is called “the cup of salvation” (See Ps. 116:13). Believers share the cup of salvation, showing that it is the communion of the blood of Christ (See 1Cor. 10:16), i.e. partaking in the fellowship of the blood of Christ. Enlightenment in the Word: 1) “The curse endured He, the blessing enjoy we.” He bore the punishment of sins for us and made us enjoy the good blessing. 2) “He took the cup and gave thanks.” The Lord received the cross with thanksgiving, unlike our usual complaints in similar situations.

Matt. 26:28 “For this is My blood of the new covenant, which is shed for many for the remission of sins.” YLT: “for this is my blood of the new covenant, that for many is being poured out to remission of sins;” Literal Meaning: “this is My blood of the new covenant.” “Covenant” indicates contract or will. “Which is shed for many” “Many” indicate “all men” according to the Jewish common usage (See Matt. 20:28; Is. 53:12). Enlightenment in the Word: 1) The body of the Lord is broken for us and His blood is shed for us and becomes the proof of the new covenant------the crucified Christ is the foundation of all blessing of the New Testament. 2) Believers break the bread and drink the cup to announce the death of the Lord; we do so in remembrance of Him (See 1Cor. 11:24-26).

Matt. 26:29 “But I say to you, I will not drink of this fruit of the vine from now on until that day when I drink it new with you in My Father's kingdom.’” YLT: “and I say to you, that I may not drink henceforth on this produce of the vine, till that day when I may drink it with you new in the reign of my Father.’” Literal Meaning: “I will not drink of this fruit of the vine from now on.” “The fruit of the vine” includes the juice of grape, grape wine and etc. “That day when I drink it new with you” indicates the day when overcomers sit with the Lord in the kingdom of a thousand years (See Matt. 25:10). Enlightenment in the Word: 1) Though the Lord no longer drinks with us in the flesh, He will share the unlimited and abundant blessing with us in the eternal life. Therefore we break the bread, drink the cup today and these are only the foretaste of “the day when we drink it new”. The blessing (cup) that we have lasts forever. 2) The hope of our breaking of bread and drinking of cup is to drink new with the Lord in the kingdom of God the Father; the way to enter into the kingdom and enjoy blessing forever for believers is to have frequent fellowship with Christ’s death of the cross today------through many tribulations, we must enter into the kingdom of God (Acts. 14:22).

Matt. 26:30 “And when they had sung a hymn, they went out to the Mount of Olives.” YLT: “And having sung a hymn, they went forth to the mount of the Olives;” The Background: “they had sung a hymn” The Jews sang the psalm of “Hallel” during the dinner of the Passover. It includes the Ps. 104 to Ps. 105, Ps. 113 to Ps. 118. During the dinner, they sang the first part of Hallel, i.e. from Ps. 104 to Ps. 105, from Ps. 113 to Ps. 114; after dinner, they sang the second part of Hallel, i.e. from Ps. 115 to Ps. 118. Enlightenment in the Word: every time after we have broken the bread, the Lord Himself will lead us to sing songs to praise (See Heb. 2:12) and worship God the Father.

Matt. 26:31 “Then Jesus said to them, ‘All of you will be made to stumble because of Me this night, for it is written: ‘I will strike the Shepherd, And the sheep of the flock will be scattered.'” YLT: “then saith Jesus to them, `All ye shall be stumbled at me this night; for it hath been written, I will smite the shepherd, and the sheep of the flock shall be scattered abroad;” Literal Meaning: “be made to stumble” indicates that the disciples forsake Him and fled (See v.56) and Peter denied the Lord (See v.69-75). “I will strike the Shepherd, And the sheep of the flock will be scattered.” This sentence is quoted from the prophecy in Zech. 13:7. Usually the flock follows the shepherd. Now the shepherd is gone and the sheep of the flock will flee because they do not know the voice of strangers (See John. 10:4-5). Enlightenment in the Word: 1) The reason why many believers are made to stumble is that the Lord, seeming to be a common person, has not shown miraculous works before them to deliver them from danger. However, the Lord’s “doing nothing” has His own goodwill. 2) “I will strike the Shepherd, and the sheep of the flock will be scattered.” If Christ is struck, the church must be broken up; if we want to keep the true oneness of the church, we have to hold high Christ and let Him receive the position that He deserves. 3) The Lord is the element of the oneness of believers. If someone in the church holds high men and lets the position of the Lord suffer loss, this will lead to division.

Matt. 26:32 “But after I have been raised, I will go before you to Galilee.’” YLT: “but, after my having risen, I will go before you to Galilee.’” Literal Meaning: “I will go before you to Galilee” could be translated as “I will lead you to Galilee”. Enlightenment in the Word: 1) The Lord reveals not only His death but also His resurrection; we should know both Christ’s death for the remission of sins and Christ’s life of resurrection. 2) The promise of the Lord’s resurrection gives us unlimited encouragement and death will be swallowed up in victory (See 1Cor. 15:54). Therefore we should not dare death because we have the hope of resurrection. 3) The Lord reveals that the sheep of the flock will be scattered (v.31) and the sheep of the flock will be gathered together; we should never stay in the condition of the negative darkness and we should move on to light positively. 4) The Lord goes before us and we all follow Him (See John. 10:4, 27).

Matt. 26:33 “Peter answered and said to Him, ‘Even if all are made to stumble because of You, I will never be made to stumble.’” YLT: “And Peter answering said to him, `Even if all shall be stumbled at thee, I will never be stumbled.’” Literal Meaning: “are made to stumble” in the original means to give up because of disappointment. Enlightenment in the Word: 1) Those who do not know themselves always think that they are stronger and love the Lord more than others and consequently those who think themselves as strong are usually made to stumble the most seriously. 2) Each should esteem other better than themselves (Pill. 2:3). 3) Wherefore let him that thinks that he stands take heed lest he fall (1Cor. 10:12).

Matt. 26:34 “Jesus said to him, ‘Assuredly, I say to you that this night, before the rooster crows, you will deny Me three times.’” YLT: “Jesus said to him, `Verily I say to thee, that, this night, before cock- crowing, thrice thou wilt deny me.’” Enlightenment in the Word: 1) Environment is the best tool of God to manifest our “selves”; sometimes the Lord arranges for us some dark environment (“this night, before the rooster crows”) and permits us to experience frustrations and stumble (“you will deny Me three times”) in order to make us know ourselves. 2) The experience of failure is still advantageous to us------it makes us no longer trust in ourselves but fully in Him (See 2Cor. 1:9).

Matt. 26:35 “Peter said to Him, ‘Even if I have to die with You, I will not deny You!’ And so said all the disciples.” YLT: “Peter saith to him, `Even if it may be necessary for me to die with thee, I will not deny thee;’ in like manner also said all the disciples.” Literal Meaning: Peter and all the disciples indeed have the will to die with the Lord. Simply they do not know their own weakness and they said the irresponsible words. Enlightenment in the Word: 1) Many times, the spirit indeed is willing, but the flesh is weak. Therefore we should watch and pray (See v.41). 2) “One is unable to do what he wants very much to do.”------one still cannot do something if he only has willingness and does not have power; believers should never work by the flesh.

Matt. 26:36 “Then Jesus came with them to a place called Gethsemane, and said to the disciples, ‘Sit here while I go and pray over there.’” YLT: “Then come with them doth Jesus to a place called Gethsemane, and he saith to the disciples, `Sit ye here, till having gone away, I shall pray yonder.’” Meaning of Words: “Gethsemane”: the place to press oil, olive oil press. Literal Meaning: “called Gethsemane” is a garden of olive. It is on the other side of the valley of Kidron which is about one point two kilometer away from the city wall of Jerusalem. It is the place where Jesus often restored with His disciples (See John. 18:1-2). Spiritual Meaning: the prayer of the Lord Jesus in the garden of Gethsemane typifies that He was pressed and tortured alone there and spread the oil (which typifies the Holy Spirit) to be our Comforter (See John. 7:39; 16:7).

Matt. 26:37 “And He took with Him Peter and the two sons of Zebedee, and He began to be sorrowful and deeply distressed.” YLT: “And having taken Peter, and the two sons of Zebedee, he began to be sorrowful, and to be very heavy;” Literal Meaning: “the two sons of Zebedee” indicate Jacob and John (See Matt. 10:2; 20:20). “He began to be sorrowful and deeply distressed.” The Lord Jesus is both God and man. In His humanity, He was a man subject to like passions as we are (See James. 5:17) and therefore He would weep and be troubled (See John. 11:33, 35). However, the reason why the Lord was distressed is that He feared to be forsaken by God because of bearing our sins instead of death (See Matt. 27:46). Enlightenment in the Word: the Lord Himself has suffered being tempted and therefore He is able to be touched with the feeling of our infirmities (See Heb. 2:18; 4:15).

Matt. 26:38 “Then He said to them, ‘My soul is exceedingly sorrowful, even to death. Stay here and watch with Me.’” YLT: “then saith he to them, `Exceedingly sorrowful is my soul unto death; abide ye here, and watch with me.’” Enlightenment in the Word: “watch with Me” shows that even the Lord Jesus also needs others’ support. Furthermore, believers should care about each other (See 1Cor. 12:25; Heb. 10:24).

Matt. 26:39 “He went a little farther and fell on His face, and prayed, saying, ‘O My Father, if it is possible, let this cup pass from Me; nevertheless, not as I will, but as You will.’” YLT: “And having gone forward a little, he fell on his face, praying, and saying, `My Father, if it be possible, let this cup pass from me; nevertheless, not as I will, but as Thou.’” Spiritual Meaning: “let this cup pass from Me” “cup” means suffering and death (See Matt. 20:22). “This cup” is the cup of God’s wrath (See Rev. 14:10) and originally it is the portion that we deserve. However, God sent the Lord Jesus to the earth to let Him replace us to drink this cup, i.e. letting Him bear sins and die on the cross. Therefore the cup indicates the death of the cross. The Lord there touched the heart of God the Father in order to make sure whether there is another way besides “the death of the cross” to fulfill God’s will. Enlightenment in the Word: 1) “My Father” The Lord’s shout shows that all our environments and misfortune are measured to us by God the Father and He never treats us badly without reason. 2) “Not as I will, but as You will.” The key for the Lord to overcome is to fully obey the will of God the Father. 3) If there is not the obedience in the garden of Gethsemane, there won’t be the death of the cross in Golgotha. Obedience should be before the cross. 4) The true experience of the cross is to make one’s soul suffer pain in order to obey the will of God (See v.37-38). 5) God’s will to believers is letting us deny ourselves, take up our crosses and follow the Lord (See Matt. 16:24).

Matt. 26:40 “Then He came to the disciples and found them sleeping, and said to Peter, ‘What! Could you not watch with Me one hour?” YLT: “And he cometh unto the disciples, and findeth them sleeping, and he saith to Peter, `So! ye were not able one hour to watch with me!” Enlightenment in the Word: Peter was willing to die with the Lord (See v.35), however, he was unable to watch one hour with the Lord; those who are unable to watch one hour will be unable to face death.

Matt. 26:41 “Watch and pray, lest you enter into temptation. The spirit indeed is willing, but the flesh is weak.’” YLT: “watch, and pray, that ye may not enter into temptation: the spirit indeed is forward, but the flesh weak.’” Literal Meaning: “temptation” here indicates to give chance to the enemy to take advantage of the crack to enter in. Enlightenment in the Word: 1) The only way to avoid the temptation of Satan is to “watch and pray”. 2) The condition of men’s “body” usually cannot catch up with men’s “willingness” and therefore we have to exercise our bodies until we could keep under our bodies and bring them into subjection (1Cor. 9:27).

Matt. 26:42 “Again, a second time, He went away and prayed, saying, ‘O My Father, if this cup cannot pass away from Me unless I drink it, Your will be done.’” YLT: “Again, a second time, having gone away, he prayed, saying, `My Father, if this cup cannot pass away from me except I drink it, Thy will be done;’”

Matt. 26:43 “And He came and found them asleep again, for their eyes were heavy.” YLT: “and having come, he findeth them again sleeping, for their eyes were heavy.” Meaning of Words: “heavy”: burden, tired. Enlightenment in the Word: if our spiritual eyes are blurred and “heavy”, these will bring in a deep sleep of spirit and even death (See Acts. 20:9).

Matt. 26:44 “So He left them, went away again, and prayed the third time, saying the same words.” YLT: “And having left them, having gone away again, he prayed a third time, saying the same word;” Enlightenment in the Word: 1) The Lord Jesus prayed God three times and the words of His prayers were the same. It reveals us a principle of prayer: prayer must be sufficient, thorough and to the point and we should keep praying until we receive God’s answer. 2) There is no doubt that we should not use vain repetitions when praying (See Matt. 6:7), however, when we pray and seek the will of God for one thing, we should ask Him again and again until we clearly understand the will of God.

Matt. 26:45 “Then He came to His disciples and said to them, ‘Are you still sleeping and resting? Behold, the hour is at hand, and the Son of Man is being betrayed into the hands of sinners.” YLT: “then cometh he unto his disciples, and saith to them, `Sleep on henceforth, and rest! lo, the hour hath come nigh, and the Son of Man is delivered up to the hands of sinners.” Literal Meaning: “Are you still sleeping and resting?” in the original is “sleep on now and take your rest.” It means that the thing was settled finally and the time to watch and pray has passed by. Enlightenment in the Word: 1) Every time when the Lord had finished the prayer, He returned to the disciples. At this time He was tortured and the most painful, however, He was still concerned about the disciples. What the bowels of Christ! 2) The Lord’s disciples were unable to watch with Him and share the suffering because of their weakness. However, the Lord did not force them to pray with Him and He departed from them and prayed alone. This shows that though the corporate prayer is important, sometimes the individual prayer, on the contrary, touches the feeling of God more.

Matt. 26:46 “Rise, let us be going. See, My betrayer is at hand.’” YLT: “Rise, let us go; lo, he hath come nigh who is delivering me up.’” Literal Meaning: “rise, let us be going.” It is not escape but to face that group of forces. Enlightenment in the Word: 1) After we clear know the will of God through prayer, we should rise and observe the will of God (“rise, let us be going”). 2) The Lord likes us to rise, walk on the way of the cross with Him, follow the steps of the Lamb and have fellowship with His sufferings.

Matt. 26:47 “And while He was still speaking, behold, Judas, one of the twelve, with a great multitude with swords and clubs, came from the chief priests and elders of the people.” YLT: “And while he is yet speaking, lo, Judas, one of the twelve did come, and with him a great multitude, with swords and sticks, from the chief priests and elders of the people.” Literal Meaning: “Judas, one of the twelve”; the Bible uses “one of the twelve” to call Judas (See v.14). “The chief priests and elders of the people” were main members to make up the Sanhedrin. Enlightenment in the Word: 1) The way of the world is “a great multitude” and “with swords and clubs”, however, we do not wrestle against flesh and blood (See Eph. 6:12). Therefore those who rely on the strength of many people and fleshly weapons will fall under the fleshly principle. Maybe men think that they win a victory but actually they suffer a crushing defeat. 2) The principle of the Lamb is that who, when he was reviled, did not revile again; when he suffered, he did not threaten (1Pet. 2:23). 3) When the church hears the voice of the Lord, revives and is willing to work with the Lord, the enemy comes and wants to hold back the church from going forth.

Matt. 26:48 “Now His betrayer had given them a sign, saying, ‘Whomever I kiss, He is the One; seize Him.’” YLT: “And he who did deliver him up did give them a sign, saying, `Whomsoever I will kiss, it is he: lay hold on him;’” Enlightenment in the Word: 1) According to the customs of the Jews, “kiss” is an expression of intimacy and honor. Unexpectedly, it is used as a secret sign to betray the Lord; many intimate expressions and sweat words are horrible and may even “betray” us. 2) Some leaders of the church like to be flattered by praise of his followers, however, they will be harmed seriously by adulators sooner or later.

Matt. 26:49 “Immediately he went up to Jesus and said, ‘Greetings, Rabbi!’ and kissed Him.” YLT: “and immediately, having come to Jesus, he said, `Hail, Rabbi,’ and kissed him;” Literal Meaning: “and kissed Him” “Kiss” is a way of greeting from disciples to teachers (rabbi) in the Jewish society. Therefore after he had said, “greetings, Rabbi!”, it is common to kiss Him. However, the “kissed” in this verse is different from the “kiss” in previous verse in the original. The tone of emphasis in this verse shows the very intimate act (See Luke. 15:20; Acts. 20:37). From this Judas’s pretense and affectation are more obviously shown. Matt. 26:50 “But Jesus said to him, ‘Friend, why have you come?’ Then they came and laid hands on Jesus and took Him.” YLT: “and Jesus said to him, `Comrade, for what art thou present?’ Then having come near, they laid hands on Jesus, and took hold on him.” Meaning of Words: “friend”: companion. Literal Meaning: “friend” is usually used to call those whose names are unknown (See Matt.20:13; 22:12). Enlightenment in the Word: 1) Even under this condition, the Lord still called Judas “friend”. Bitter words cannot be found out of the mouth of the Lord. 2) Let no bitter, hateful, indignant, noisy, slanderous and corrupt communication proceed out of your mouth, but that which is good to the use of edifying (See Eph. 4:29, 31).

Matt. 26:51 “And suddenly, one of those who were with Jesus stretched out his hand and drew his sword, struck the servant of the high priest, and cut off his ear.” YLT: “And lo, one of those with Jesus, having stretched forth the hand, drew his sword, and having struck the servant of the chief priest, he took off his ear.” Literal Meaning: “one of those who were with Jesus” The one is Peter (See John. 18:10). Spiritual Meaning: “sword” symbolizes fleshly warfare (See 2Cor. 10:4). Enlightenment in the Word: 1) Those who do not know the meaning of the cross always stretches out his “hand” of flesh and draws the “sword” of flesh, tempting to protect the Lord and things that are of the Lord. It is of no effect and contrarily it is harmful. 2) The fleshly warfare could cut off men’s “ear” at most and contrarily let men not listen to the words of God.

Matt. 26:52 “But Jesus said to him, ‘Put your sword in its place, for all who take the sword will perish by the sword.” YLT: “Then saith Jesus to him, `Turn back thy sword to its place; for all who did take the sword, by the sword shall perish;” Spiritual Meaning: “put your sword in its place” means that do not wrestle by the flesh and blood. “For all who take the sword will perish by the sword” indicates that those who want to do things by the flesh will fall into spiritual death (See Rom. 8:6). Enlightenment in the Word: 1) The good aim must be achieved by good means; even if we have achieved the best aim through wrong means, we won’t be praised by the Lord. 2) Any spiritual motive or aim should never be facilitated by natural power.

Matt. 26:53 “Or do you think that I cannot now pray to My Father, and He will provide Me with more than twelve legions of angels?” YLT: “dost thou think that I am not able now to call upon my Father, and He will place beside me more than twelve legions of messengers?” Meaning of Words: “provide”: stand beside, present. Literal Meaning: “He will provide Me with more than twelve legions of angels” “Legion” is the common military word in Rome at that time. According to the establishment of the Roman army at that time, the number of a legion of soldiers is from three thousand to six thousand; “twelve legions of angels” mean “many angels”. It also could be compared to “twelve disciples”. Spiritual Meaning: in this verse the Lord meant that if He wanted to avoid drinking this cup (the bitterness of the cross), He has heavenly way to keep Himself and there is no need for men to do something for Him. Enlightenment in the Word: 1) The Lord is not “unable” to save Himself. He is “unwilling” to disobey the will of God and force God to preserve Him. 2) Though the Lord has good way to save Himself, He would rather not use the way in order to achieve the fulfillment of the will of God; it shows that what’s important is not the safety or smoothness of things but whether things are fulfilled according to the will of God.

Matt. 26:54 “How then could the Scriptures be fulfilled, that it must happen thus?’” YLT: “how then may the Writings be fulfilled, that thus it behoveth to happen?’” Enlightenment in the Word: the Lord would rather not use any mean to preserve Himself in order to make the will of God be fulfilled.

Matt. 26:55 “In that hour Jesus said to the multitudes, ‘Have you come out, as against a robber, with swords and clubs to take Me? I sat daily with you, teaching in the temple, and you did not seize Me.” YLT: “In that hour said Jesus to the multitudes, ‘As against a robber ye did come forth, with swords and sticks, to take me! daily with you I was sitting teaching in the temple, and ye did not lay hold on me;” Literal Meaning: the words of the Lord exposed the unrighteousness of religious believers on one hand, on the other He also pointed out that He will be crucified with “robbers” (See Matt. 27:38). This word that “He was numbered with the transgressors” is fulfilled (See Is. 53:12).

Matt. 26:56 “But all this was done that the Scriptures of the prophets might be fulfilled.’ Then all the disciples forsook Him and fled.” YLT: “but all this hath come to pass, that the Writings of the prophets may be fulfilled;’ then all the disciples, having left him, fled.” Literal Meaning: “all the disciples forsook Him and fled.” The words of disciples that they pledged to die with Him (See v.35) are still ringing in our ears. Now when the trial comes, men’s actual states are revealed. Enlightenment in the Word: when the trial came, all the disciples failed; however, all spiritual virtue must be tried and then will be much precious (See 1Pet. 1:7; 1Cor. 3:13).

Matt. 26:57 “And those who had laid hold of Jesus led Him away to Caiaphas the high priest, where the scribes and the elders were assembled.” YLT: “And those laying hold on Jesus led [him] away unto Caiaphas the chief priest, where the scribes and the elders were gathered together,” Spiritual Meaning: this is to fulfill that the Lord Himself is the Lamb of the Passover and before He was killed, He must be sent to the priests to look on and identify that He is the one without blemish and then He could be sacrifice unto God (See Exod. 12:5; Deut. 17:1). Enlightenment in the Word: the Lord Jesus did not know sin and was made be sin for us, that we might be made the righteousness of God in Him (See 2Cor. 5:21).

Matt. 26:58 “But Peter followed Him at a distance to the high priest's courtyard. And he went in and sat with the servants to see the end.” YLT: “and Peter was following him afar off, unto the court of the chief priest, and having gone in within, he was sitting with the officers, to see the end.” Literal Meaning: “the high priest’s courtyard” “courtyard” indicates the outdoor yard around which there are buildings. “He sat with the servants” “Servants” indicate the servants of the high priest or they may be security guarders who maintain the order of the Holy Temple. Enlightenment in the Word: 1) Anyone who follows the Lord by natural strength all “follows Him at a distance” and finally he will show the real situation when forced by environment. 2) Today many believers seem to follow the Lord apparently. But actually they “follow Jesus at a distance”, keep a distance, look on the situation and get ready to abandon the Lord to flee at any time.

Matt. 26:59 “Now the chief priests, the elders, and all the council sought false testimony against Jesus to put Him to death,” YLT: “And the chief priests, and the elders, and all the council, were seeking false witness against Jesus, that they might put him to death,” The Background: “all the council” The Jewish Sanhedrin is the supreme governing office of the Jews and the high priest is the chairman. In the age of Jesus, the Sanhedrin was the council of seventy-one members which was made up of the high priest, the elders and scribes. Twenty-three is the effective and legal number of people.

Matt. 26:60 “but found none. Even though many false witnesses came forward, they found none. But at last two false witnesses came forward” YLT: “and they did not find; and many false witnesses having come near, they did not find; and at last two false witnesses having come near,” The Background: according to the regulations of the Law of Moses, judgment should be done when there is witness of “two” at least. Enlightenment in the Word: Religious believers had used up all lies (“false witnesses”) and still cannot condemn the Lord; the Lord is indeed the lamb without blemish and without spot (See 1Pet. 1:19; Heb. 9:14).

Matt. 26:61 “and said, ‘This fellow said, ‘I am able to destroy the temple of God and to build it in three days.’” YLT: “said, ‘This one said, I am able to throw down the sanctuary of God, and after three days to build it.’” The Background: the Holy Temple is the most sacred religious body in the mind of the Jews and it symbolizes the center of the whole service and individual life. Any impious word towards the Holy Temple constitutes the blasphemy though one does not blaspheme God directly. Literal Meaning: the accusation in this verse purposely distorted the words of the Lord (See John. 2:19). Enlightenment in the Word: 1) Religious believers did not care that they had made the temple of God into the den of thieves (See Matt. 21:13), however, here they distorted the words of the Lord to show their concern to the Holy Temple. Religious believers only seek the appearance of the Holy Temple and do not seek the reality of the Holy Temple. 2) Today sins are brought into the church by many believers and they are greatly fervent for the mere name of the church.

Matt. 26:62 “And the high priest arose and said to Him, ‘Do You answer nothing? What is it these men testify against You?’” YLT: “And the chief priest having stood up, said to him, `Nothing thou dost answer! what do these witness against thee?” Literal Meaning: the Lord did not defend Himself before the council and this fulfills the words that “as a sheep before her shearers is dumb, so He did not open His mouth” (Is. 53:7).

Matt. 26:63 “But Jesus kept silent. And the high priest answered and said to Him, ‘I put You under oath by the living God: Tell us if You are the Christ, the Son of God!’” YLT: “and Jesus was silent. And the chief priest answering said to him, `I adjure thee, by the living God, that thou mayest say to us, if thou art the Christ the Son of God.’” Enlightenment in the Word: 1) “But Jesus kept silent.” There is no need for us to pay attention to the unfaithful accusation from the enemy. 2) Christ is “the Son of God” and it is the pivotal witness of Christians and we should never make a concession to this witness. If we make a concession, all truth will become vain.

Matt. 26:64 “Jesus said to him, ‘It is as you said. Nevertheless, I say to you, hereafter you will see the Son of Man sitting at the right hand of the Power, and coming on the clouds of heaven.’” YLT: “Jesus saith to him, `Thou hast said; nevertheless I say to you, hereafter ye shall see the Son of Man sitting on the right hand of the power, and coming upon the clouds, of the heaven.’” Literal Meaning: “you will see the Son of Man” “The Son of Man” is the Lord’s position and identity through incarnation. The high priest asked Him whether He is the Son of God. The Lord’s answer presented Himself as the Son of Man because He suffered pain in Humanity, and He also overcame standing on the position of the Son of Man (See Matt. 4:4), arose from the dead (See v.2; Matt. 20:18-19), was carried up into heaven (See Acts. 7:56) and will come again. Enlightenment in the Word: 1) When men bring false charge against Him, He kept silent. Only when He was asked whether He is the Son of God, He cannot but declare His identity because He came into the world with the aim of bearing witness to Christ (See Matt. 16:15-17). 2) To other things, we should hold the tolerant and yielding attitude. However, we should never make a concession on the witness of Jesus Christ and contrarily we should be strong and of a good courage and we should not make a compromise at all. 3) We should learn from Paul the apostle who determined not to know any thing, except Jesus Christ, and Him crucified (1Cor. 2:2).

Matt. 26:65 “Then the high priest tore his clothes, saying, ‘He has spoken blasphemy! What further need do we have of witnesses? Look, now you have heard His blasphemy!” YLT: “Then the chief priest rent his garments, saying, `He hath spoken evil; what need have we yet of witnesses? lo, now ye heard his evil speaking;” Literal Meaning: “the high priest tore his clothes” “Tearing one’s clothes” originally is an expression of the Jews when they are grievous and indignant, except that the high priest cannot tear his clothes even when his family members were dead (See Lev. 10:6; 21:10) and only when he hears blasphemy could he tear his clothes. “Blasphemy” means evil speaking and profanation.

Matt. 26:66 “What do you think?’ They answered and said, ‘He is deserving of death.’” YLT: “what think ye?’ and they answering said, `He is worthy of death.’” Literal Meaning: “what do you think?” means that, “how do you judge?” “ He is deserving of death” The Jews, under the dominion of the Roman Empire at that time, did not have the right of executing death penalty. Therefore it is not the legal judgment indeed that the council pronounced the sentence of death upon the Lord. Note that the high priest and others condemned the Lord Jesus not for the reason that He “is” the Son of God but that He “testified” that He is the Son of God. They did not want to prove whether He is the Son of God at all. They only wanted to find an excuse for condemnation. Enlightenment in the Word: 1) Religious believers haggle over words and names (See Acts. 18:15; 2Tim. 2:14) and neglect the spiritual reality, that the Son of God was condemned for death by them. 2) The members of the council purposed to take away Jesus not because they cared about the things of God but the words and deeds of Jesus strictly threatened the rights and interests of the council. Today, if any person or group put their own interest higher than the will of God, they will play the role of those who kill the Lord. 3) Who condemns the Lord the very first is not the political power of the Gentiles but men of Judaism------God’s people; if believers do not have the revelation of God, even those who are fervent may do things that hurt the Lord greatly.

Matt. 26:67 “Then they spat in His face and beat Him; and others struck Him with the palms of their hands,” YLT: “Then did they spit in his face and buffet him, and others did slap,” Enlightenment in the Word: these words and deeds of religious believers completely expose their base, low, unreasonable and evil nature. At the same time, we could see that the Lord was actually willing to be humiliated in order to save us. Shall we not be moved and go forth therefore unto Him without the camp, bearing His reproach (See Heb. 13:13).

Matt. 26:68 “saying, ‘Prophesy to us, Christ! Who is the one who struck You?’” YLT: “saying, `Declare to us, O Christ, who he is that struck thee?’” Literal Meaning: this verse is the mock. Matt. 26:69 “Now Peter sat outside in the courtyard. And a servant girl came to him, saying, ‘You also were with Jesus of Galilee.’” YLT: “And Peter without was sitting in the court, and there came near to him a certain maid, saying, ‘And thou wast with Jesus of Galilee!’” Literal Meaning: “a servant girl” indicates one of the maids in the house of the high priest (See Mark. 14:66).

Matt. 26:70 “But he denied it before them all, saying, ‘I do not know what you are saying.’” YLT: “And he denied before all, saying, `I have not known what thou sayest.’” Literal Meaning: “I do not know what you are saying” means that “I do not know the meaning of your words.” Enlightenment in the Word: Peter thought that he was strong and loved the Lord could not bear a sentence of a weak servant girl unexpectedly. Wherefore let him that thinks he stands take heed lest he fall (See 1Cor. 10:12).

Matt. 26:71 “And when he had gone out to the gateway, another girl saw him and said to those who were there, ‘This fellow also was with Jesus of Nazareth.’” YLT: “And he having gone forth to the porch, another female saw him, and saith to those there, `And this one was with Jesus of Nazareth;’”

Matt. 26:72 “But again he denied with an oath, ‘I do not know the Man!’” YLT: “and again did he deny with an oath `I have not known the man.’” Meaning of Words: “with an oath” It is the common oath (it is not as serious as “swear” in v.74). Enlightenment in the Word: Peter only said that “I do not know what you are saying” earlier (See v.70) and now he said with an oath that “I do not know the Man!” The beginning of men’s fall is always very small and unconscious. However, a small failure will bring in greater and more serious failure. How should we not be alert?

Matt. 26:73 “And a little later those who stood by came up and said to Peter, ‘Surely you also are one of them, for your speech betrays you.’” YLT: “And after a little those standing near having come, said to Peter, ‘Truly thou also art of them, for even thy speech doth make thee manifest.’” The Background: Galilean spoke Aramaic and they had a broad accent of Galilean which was notably different from that of men in the land of Judah. Spiritual Meaning: “speech” represents the feature which is organized by the Holy Spirit in a believer in his life and experience. Enlightenment in the Word: 1) There is no need to debate that the Lord is true; however, it is debated again and again that Peter is false. Concerning the true things, it is clear without any debate; concerning the false things, the more it is debated, the more obviously the “speech” is shown. 2) One’s accumulative habits, words and deeds of many years will naturally show his inner and actual state. And it is hard to disguise himself. 3) God arranges our environment and makes us be tried again and again. The trial becomes hasher and harsher until we fully realize our weakness so that we no longer rely on ourselves.

Matt. 26:74 “Then he began to curse and swear, saying, ‘I do not know the Man!’ Immediately a rooster crowed.” YLT: “Then began he to anathematise, and to swear `I have not known the man;’ and immediately did a cock crow,” Meaning of Words: “swear”: declare on oath (“swear” is more serious than “with an oath” in v.72) Literal Meaning: “curse and swear” “Swear” is different from “with an oath” in v.72 and its nature is more serious, showing that he used up the ways of oath to defend himself. When Peter denied the Lord the first time, he only said something to deny Him (See v.70); the second time, he use “an oath” to support his words (See v.72); the third time, he cursed and swore in order to support his words. It becomes more and more serious time by time. Enlightenment in the Word: when men accused the Lord, He did not defend Himself at all. The truth will be manifested naturally. However, the more Peter defended himself, the easier it is to give the show away. When men misunderstand us, the best way is not defending ourselves but praying.

Matt. 26:75 “And Peter remembered the word of Jesus who had said to him, ‘Before the rooster crows, you will deny Me three times.’ So he went out and wept bitterly.” YLT: “and Peter remembered the saying of Jesus, he having said to him `Before cock-crowing, thrice thou wilt deny me;’ and having gone without, he did weep bitterly.” Enlightenment in the Word: 1) The Lord, through crows of the rooster, reminded Peter that he owed Him; we should take care that whether the Lord had spoken to us in order to remind us that we owe Him or are unfaithful to Him through our misfortune or environment around. 2) It is unavoidably that believers may fail or be offended and what’s the most important is that we should know the word of the Lord (“remembered the word of Jesus who had said to him”) in the failing experience or and environment (“crows of the rooster”) and be touched by the word of the Lord and feel broken and contrite from heart (“he went out and wept bitterly”). In this way, we could continue to go forth in the Lord.

The Suffering of the King I. The Lord Jesus was found as the Lamb of the Passover: A. The Lord predicted that He would be crucified (v.1-2). B. Men premeditated to kill Him (v.3-5). II. Men’s evaluation towards the Lamb of the Passover: A. He is worthy to be anointed with fragrant oil which costs three hundred denarii (v.6-13). B. Judas betrayed the Lord for thirty pieces of silver (v.14-16). III. The sign of the King’s suffering: A. The Feast of the Passover (v.17-25). B. The desk of the Lord (v.26-30). IV. The Lord Jesus suffered alone: A. The sheep of the flock were scattered because the shepherd was struck (v.31-35). B. The Lord was tortured in the garden of Gethsemane (v. 36-46). V. The Lamb of the Passover was looked on by the priest: A. He was brought as a lamb to the slaughter (v.47-56). B. He was looked on and manifested as the lamb without blemish (v.57-68). VI. The extreme of suffering------the Lord was denied by His close disciple (v.69- 75).

The Death of the Lord Jesus I. The Lord’s own description towards His death (v.1-2): A. His death was related to the Passover------“after two days is the Passover”. B. His death was the death of the flesh------“the Son of Man”. C. His death was due to the betrayal of men------“be delivered up”. D. His death was by the cross------“to be crucified”. II. The death was due to scheme of religious believers (v.3-5): A. His death was the result of the plot of religious leaders. B. His death was caused by “trickery”. C. His death was not planed to be executed during the feast.

A Good Work I. She poured the costly fragrant oil on the Lord’s head (v.7)------she knew the preciousness of the Lord. II. As He sat at the table (v.7)------she seized the opportunity to love the Lord. III. It caused others’ criticism and blame (v.8-9)------she disregarded others’ opinions. IV. It was done for the Lord (v.10)------she only pleased the Lord. V. It was praised by the Lord as a good work (v.10)------she knew the will of the Lord. VI. She loved the Lord more than the poor (v.11)------she loved the Lord more than everything. VII. It was done for the Lord’s burial (v.12)------she knew the meaning of the cross was united to the death of the Lord. VIII. Wherever this gospel is preached, what this woman has done will also be told (v.13)------this good work is the aim of the gospel.

Mary Anointed the Lord I. It was done at the house of Simon the leper (v.6). II. It was a behavior of love and faith towards the Lord (v.7). III. It was the dedication which seemed to be “waste” and exceeded conventions (v.8-9). IV. It was a good work done by seizing the opportunity (v.10-11). V. It was done for the burial of the Lord (v.12). VI. It was worthy to be told as a memorial all over the world (v.13).

The Lord’s Desk (i.e. the so-called Eucharist) I. Its typification in narrow sense: A. The bread------the body of the Lord was broken for us (v.26). B. The cup------the blood of the Lord was shed for us (v.27). II. Its typification in broad sense (See 1Cor. 10:16-17): A. The bread------all believers partake in the body of Christ through “eating” the bread. B. The cup------all believers partake in the blessing of Christ through “drinking” the cup.

The Prayer of the Lord in the Garden of Gethsemane (v.36-48) I. The Lord Jesus was sorrowful alone------the disciples did not understand the suffering of the cross (the cup). II. The Lord Jesus prayed alone------the disciples were unable to watch and pray with Him because of their weakness. III. The Lord Jesus asked the relation between the cup and the will of God------He only sought the fulfillment of the will of God the Father. IV. The Lord Jesus prayed three times------until He clearly understood the will of God the Father. V. The Lord Jesus faced what was going to happen calmly and composedly------because He clearly knew the will of God the Father.

The Spirit Indeed is Willing, but the Flesh is Weak I. They were willing to die with the Lord in their hearts (v.35). II. The weak conditions of their flesh: A. Their eyes were heavy and they were asleep (v.43). B. They all forsook Him and fled (v.56). C. Peter followed the Lord at a distance (v.58). D. Peter denied the Lord three times (v.69-75). III. The way to make it up: A. The example of the Lord------not as I will, but as you will (v.39). B. The teaching of the Lord------watch and pray, lest you enter into temptation (v.41). IV. Warning------one should never rely on the strength of the flesh (v.51-52). Matthew Chapter Twenty-seven

The Lord’s Being Judged, Suffering and Crucifixion and Burial I. The Lord was judged before Pontius Pilate: A. He was delivered to Pontius Pilate (v.1-2). B. The ending of Judas (v.3-10). C. He was judged and condemned (v.11-26). II. He suffered and was crucified: A. He was mocked and humiliated (v.27-31). B. Simon was compelled to bear His cross (v.32). C. He was crucified and girt (v.33-44). D. He was forsaken by God (v.45-50). E. The effect of the death of the cross (v.51-54). F. Women who followed until the cross (v.55-56). III. His burial: A. He was buried in the new tomb of a rich man (v.57-61). B. Soldiers guarded the tomb (v.62-66).

Matt. 27:1 “When morning came, all the chief priests and elders of the people plotted against Jesus to put Him to death.” YLT: “And morning having come, all the chief priests and the elders of the people took counsel against Jesus, so as to put him to death;” The Background: at that time, the Jews were under the dominion of the Roman Empire and they were given limited autonomy. It was not lawful for the council to put any one to death except for the Gentiles who rushed presumptuously into the inner courtyard (See John. 18:31). Literal Meaning: “when morning came” It indicated the morning on Friday. It was illegal for the council to hold a meeting at night and therefore purposely they held a meeting in the morning and officially condemned the death of Jesus (See Matt. 26:66). “To put Him to death” shows that they purposed to put Jesus to death.

Matt. 27:2 “And when they had bound Him, they led Him away and delivered Him to Pontius Pilate the governor.” YLT: “and having bound him, they did lead away, and delivered him up to Pontius Pilate, the governor.” The Background: “Pontius Pilate” was the fifth governor who was stationed in the land of Judaea by the Roman Empire and his term of office was from A.D. 26 to 36. Usually he was stationed in Samaria, however, in the days of the Passover he moved to Jerusalem in order to guard against disturbance or rebellion which might take place at any time. According to the description of the Jewish Historian Joseph, Pontius Pilate was a stubborn and marble person. Literal Meaning: “they delivered Him to Pontius Pilate the governor.” “Governor” indicates the viceroy or the chief person of a province. In order to achieve the aim of “putting Him to death” (See v.1), the council had to deliver Him to Pontius Pilate the governor and let him condemn Him and executed the death penalty according to the Law of the Roman Empire.

Matt. 27:3 “Then Judas, His betrayer, seeing that He had been condemned, was remorseful and brought back the thirty pieces of silver to the chief priests and elders,” YLT: “Then Judas he who delivered him up having seen that he was condemned, having repented, brought back the thirty silverlings to the chief priests, and to the elders, saying,” Literal Meaning: “remorseful” or “fell remorse” (See Matt. 21:29) is to be remorseful towards his own behavior; it is different from “repent” which is stressed on in the New Testament. Enlightenment in the Word: 1) The “repentance” which leads men to be saved is not only “being remorseful” to one’s own behavior but also turning one’s mind to God (See Matt. 3:2). 2) The “sorrow” of the world works death, however, grief according to God works repentance to salvation, never to be regretted (See 2Cor. 7:10).

Matt. 27:4 “saying, ‘I have sinned by betraying innocent blood.’ And they said, ‘What is that to us? You see to it!’” YLT: “`I did sin, having delivered up innocent blood;’ and they said, `What to us? thou shalt see!’” Literal Meaning: “innocent” means “sinless” or “not knowing sin” (See 2Cor. 5:21). Apparently, the Lord Jesus was condemned as death. Actually, Judas who betrayed the Lord and the Jewish leaders were condemned by God. Their consciousness bore witness that the Lord Jesus was “innocent” and they themselves were sinful. They were unwilling to bear the consequence of sins and therefore they were unwilling to receive “the thirty pieces of silver” (See v.3), i.e. the price to betray the Lord (See Matt. 26:15).

Matt. 27:5 “Then he threw down the pieces of silver in the temple and departed, and went and hanged himself.” YLT: “and having cast down the silverlings in the sanctuary, he departed, and having gone away, he did strangle himself.” Enlightenment in the Word: 1) “Hanged” is to hang in the air. He is neither in heaven nor on earth and he had gained nothing both in heaven or on earth. We should never be Christians hanging in the air. 2) Any Christian who seeks something besides Christ won’t have heavenly or earthly gain finally.

Matt. 27:6 “But the chief priests took the silver pieces and said, ‘It is not lawful to put them into the treasury, because they are the price of blood.’” YLT: “And the chief priests having taken the silverlings, said, `It is not lawful to put them to the treasury, seeing it is the price of blood;’” Literal Meaning: “they are the price of blood” “the price of blood” is the cost that betraying the Lord Jesus and shedding the blood of the innocent. “It is not lawful to put them into the treasury.” “Treasury” indicates the case or place in the Holy Temple that was used to store money or gifts that were dedicated to God. In their hearts the chief priests knew that this kind of money did not please God and therefore they were unwilling to put them into the treasury and use them to service or worship God.

Matt. 27:7 “And they consulted together and bought with them the potter's field, to bury strangers in.” YLT: “and having taken counsel, they bought with them the field of the potter, for the burial of strangers;” Enlightenment in the Word: 1) Even “the price of blood” of the Lord’s being betrayed is showing kindness to others------they bought with them the potter’s field, to bury “strangers” who are scattered and hopeless. His everything is for us. 2) The potter’s field is originally for supplying clay which is used to make useful vessels, however, if it deviates from the right way, it has to be changed to bury bodies; the Jews were originally materials of vessels unto honor. Today they unexpectedly suffer the eternal death because they are greedy for money. 3) Believers are God’s husbandry (See 1Cor. 3:9). We should let God’s life grow well and we should never become waste and be full of death because of a momentary slip.

Matt. 27:8 “Therefore that field has been called the Field of Blood to this day.” YLT: “therefore was that field called, `Field of blood,’ unto this day.” Literal Meaning: “the Field of Blood” was named because it was bought by “the price of blood” (See v.6) of the Lord’s being betrayed. Someone believed that it was named because Judas burst asunder in the midst and his blood splashed that place (See Acts. 1:18-19). Spiritual Meaning: “the Field of Blood” spiritually meant that the Lord Jesus who did not know sin had been made to be sin for us (2Cor. 5:21) and He shed His blood, gave His life and paid the price of life to make us the Gentiles (the meaning of “strangers” in the original) die, be buried, and be raised up with Him to be vessels unto honor in the hands of potter (See Rom. 9:21).

Matt. 27:9 “Then was fulfilled what was spoken by Jeremiah the prophet, saying, ‘And they took the thirty pieces of silver, the value of Him who was priced, whom they of the children of Israel priced,” YLT: “Then was fulfilled that spoken through Jeremiah the prophet, saying, `And I took the thirty silverlings, the price of him who hath been priced, whom they of the sons of Israel did price,” Literal Meaning: the prophet’s words in v.9 to v.10 were quoted from Zech. 11:13. There are two reasons for Matthew the author of this book to firmly believe that the words were spoken by Jeremiah: a) The Jews separated the Old Testament into three parts in the days of old and the third part is the prophets. The book of Jeremiah was the first book in the arrangement of order and therefore the book of Jeremiah represents the prophets. b) The prophet Jeremiah had visited the potter (See Jer. 18:2-4) and bought a field (See Jer. 32:6-15). Matthew may purposely quote the words in Zechariah to explain the spiritual meaning of Jeremiah’s acts (Please see the spiritual meaning below). Spiritual Meaning: every scripture is given by inspiration of God (2Tim. 3:16). The Holy Spirit inspired Matthew to mention Jeremiah the prophet with His purpose. Zechariah said to cast it unto the potter: a godly price that He was priced at of them and it is related to the prophecy of Jeremiah: a) God’s people Israel were originally in the hands of God as the clay in the potter’s hand (See Jer. 18:6). However, because they were stubborn and did evil God provoked their enemies to kill them, as one broke a potter’s vessel, that there will be no place to bury (See Jer. 19:11). b) However, God will make a new covenant with the house of Israel because of His companion (See Jer. 31:31-34) and He asked Jeremiah to redeem “the field” of his cousin which had been sold to the enemy the Chaldeans. By this action Jeremiah predicted that the captivity shall return and the kingdom of Israel shall revive (See Jer. 32:6-15, 36-44). c) Today blindness in part in happened to Israel, however, all Israel shall be saved in future (See Rom. 11:25-26).

Matt. 27:10 “and gave them for the potter's field, as the LORD directed me.’” YLT: “and gave them for the field of the potter, as the Lord did appoint to me.’”

Matt. 27:11 “Now Jesus stood before the governor. And the governor asked Him, saying, ‘Are You the King of the Jews?’ Jesus said to him, ‘It is as you say.’” YLT: “And Jesus stood before the governor, and the governor did question him, saying, ‘Art thou the king of the Jews!’ And Jesus said to him, ‘Thou sayest.’” Literal Meaning: “Are You the King of the Jews?” Pontius Pilate was the Roman governor and he usually did not show concern to religious disputes of the Jews as long as they did not involve the Roman regime. Therefore the council framed the political crime on Him before Pontius Pilate and they did not accuse Jesus with the religious crime (See Matt. 26:59-66). If Jesus presented Himself as the king of the Jews, it would indicate that He was against the Roman Government and therefore Pontius Pilate asked this question. “It is as you say.” Jesus admitted that He is the king, however, it shows that His kingdom is not of this world (See John. 18:33-38).

Matt. 27:12 “And while He was being accused by the chief priests and elders, He answered nothing.” YLT: “And in his being accused by the chief priests and the elders, he did not answer any thing,” Literal Meaning: please see the note in Matt. 26:62.

Matt. 27:13 “Then Pilate said to Him, ‘Do You not hear how many things they testify against You?’” YLT: “then saith Pilate to him, ‘Dost thou not hear how many things they witness against thee?’”

Matt. 27:14 “But He answered him not one word, so that the governor marveled greatly.” YLT: “And he did not answer him, not even to one word, so that the governor did wonder greatly.” Literal Meaning: Who, when He was reviled, did not revile again; when He suffered, he did not threaten; but committed Himself to God that judges righteously (See 1Pet. 2:23). This is the example of the Lord for us. Enlightenment in the Word: 1) If one clearly knows the will and guidance of God and trusts in God, he will have rest before God and do not defend himself under any difficult circumstance. 2) Believers should bridle their tongues and do not say meaningless words, as it becomes saints.

Matt. 27:15 “Now at the feast the governor was accustomed to releasing to the multitude one prisoner whom they wished.” YLT: “And at the feast the governor had been accustomed to release one to the multitude, a prisoner, whom they willed,” Literal Meaning: this was the convention of “special amnesty” at that time. Enlightenment in the Word: 1) Since we have inherited sin from the father the devil, we are servants of sin (See John. 8:34), and shall die in our sins (See John. 8:21, 24). However, the Son of God the Father in heaven Jesus came to “release” us and gave us the real free (See John. 8:36). 2) We are “released” because the Lord was crucified for us.

Matt. 27:16 “And at that time they had a notorious prisoner called Barabbas.” YLT: “and they had then a noted prisoner, called Barabbas,” Meaning of Words: “notorious”: remarkable, notable; “Barabbas”: son of father, son of Abba. Literal Meaning: “Barabbas” was the murder in the insurrection at that time (See Mark. 15:7). Spiritual Meaning: “Barabbas” typifies that sinners were originally of their father the devil which was a murderer from the beginning and was a liar, and the father of it (John. 8:44).

Matt. 27:17 “Therefore, when they had gathered together, Pilate said to them, ‘Whom do you want me to release to you? Barabbas, or Jesus who is called Christ?’” YLT: “they therefore having been gathered together, Pilate said to them, ‘Whom will ye I shall release to you? Barabbas or Jesus who is called Christ?’” Literal Meaning: Pilate knew perfectly well that Jesus was sinless (See v.18) and he still asked this question, showing his unrighteousness.

Matt. 27:18 “For he knew that they had handed Him over because of envy.” YLT: “for he had known that because of envy they had delivered him up.” Meaning of Words: “handed over”: deliver. Literal Meaning: “they had handed Him over because of envy” This is religious envy. The leaders of the council deeply felt that the words and deeds of Jesus threatened their rights. Enlightenment in the Word: 1) The greatest feature of religious believers is “envy” and there is strife because of envy (See 1Cor. 3:3). Therefore envy is the foundation of divisions (See 2Cor. 12:20). 2) Envy may also lead to murder (See Gal. 5:21; James. 4:2). Cain was the initiator of religion and he was the typical religious believer who killed his brother because of envy (See Gen. 4:3-8). Matt. 27:19 “While he was sitting on the judgment seat, his wife sent to him, saying, ‘Have nothing to do with that just Man, for I have suffered many things today in a dream because of Him.’” YLT: “And as he is sitting on the tribunal, his wife sent unto him, saying, ‘Nothing to thee and to that righteous one, for many things did I suffer to-day in a dream because of him.’” Literal Meaning: “that just Man” “Just Man” means the innocent man. Spiritual Meaning: “I have suffered many things in a dream because of Him.” “In a dream” is specially related to angels (See Matt. 1:20; 2:12; 13; 19). When the Lord Jesus was judged by men with political power on earth (“while he was sitting on that judgment seat”), angels in heaven testified to Him that He is the just Man. He is the just for the unjust, that He might bring us to God (See 1Pet. 3:18).

Matt. 27:20 “But the chief priests and elders persuaded the multitudes that they should ask for Barabbas and destroy Jesus.” YLT: “And the chief priests and the elders did persuade the multitudes that they might ask for themselves Barabbas, and might destroy Jesus;” Enlightenment in the Word: 1) “They should ask for Barabbas and destroy Jesus.” If Jesus was not destroyed, Barabbas won’t be released. Thank God, because the Lord Jesus was destroyed for us, we, the sinners (Barabbas), will be released. 2) Religious believers would rather ask for the murder and robber (See Mark. 15:7; John. 18:40) than ask for the Lord Jesus. This exposes the darkness of religion. Today, many people are zealous religionists (including extreme Christians) and they often disregard morality and do not have witness of life.

Matt. 27:21 “The governor answered and said to them, ‘Which of the two do you want me to release to you?’ They said, ‘Barabbas!’” YLT: “and the governor answering said to them, ‘Which of the two will ye [that] I shall release to you?’ And they said, `Barabbas.’”

Matt. 27:22 “Pilate said to them, ‘What then shall I do with Jesus who is called Christ?’ They all said to him, ‘Let Him be crucified!’” YLT: “Pilate saith to them, `What then shall I do with Jesus who is called Christ?’ They all say to him, `Let be crucified!’” The Background: “Crucifixion” was the cruel torture used by the Roman Empire to punish serious criminals at that time and it was only executed to robber, murderer, arsonist, betrayer of a country and other prisoners with serious crime. This punishment was not executed to Roman citizens. Literal Meaning: “Jesus who is called Christ” Pilate called the Lord as “Jesus who is called Christ” again and again, showing that He suffered death for this. “ Let Him be crucified!” This fulfilled the prophecy that the Lord had said previously (See Matt. 20:19; 26:2).

Matt. 27:23 “Then the governor said, ‘Why, what evil has He done?’ But they cried out all the more, saying, ‘Let Him be crucified!’” YLT: “And the governor said, `Why, what evil did he?’ and they were crying out the more, saying, ‘Let be crucified.’” Literal Meaning: “what evil has He done?” The governor asked this at the end of the judgment. It is equivalent to show that he could not inquire any sin of the Lord and admitted His innocence, proving that He is the “innocent man” (See v.4).

Matt. 27:24 “When Pilate saw that he could not prevail at all, but rather that a tumult was rising, he took water and washed his hands before the multitude, saying, ‘I am innocent of the blood of this just Person. You see to it.’” YLT: “And Pilate having seen that it profiteth nothing, but rather a tumult is made, having taken water, he did wash the hands before the multitude, saying, `I am innocent from the blood of this righteous one; ye---ye shall see;’” Literal Meaning: “he took water and washed his hands before the multitude” “Washing his hands” is to show that he was unrelated to shedding the blood of Jesus; it was the Jewish religious ceremony to wash one’s hands to declare one’s innocence (See Deut. 21:6-7; Ps. 26:6). It was not the custom of Romans. The end of judgment for the Lord Jesus was that men on earth said that He was “innocent” (See v.4) and angels in heaven said that He was “Just” (See the note of v.19). Not only men in the circle of religion could not find His blemish (See Matt. 26:59-66), but also Pontius Pilate who represented the power on earth declared that He was “innocent”. He was innocent, however, He was shed by men, showing men’s unrighteousness. Pilate washed his hands only to cheat his consciousness, but he could not wash the fact of his unrighteousness. The Lord’s righteousness is in sharp contrast with men’s unrighteousness and the Lord’s not answering one word (See v.14) is in sharp contrast with men’s explanation and prevarication.

Matt. 27:25 “And all the people answered and said, ‘His blood be on us and on our children.’” YLT: “and all the people answering said, `His blood [is] upon us, and upon our children!’” Literal Meaning: this answer that they were willing to bear the curse brings bitter tragedy to the Jews from generation to generation. Because they were willing to bear the debt of blood, their offsprings suffered persecution and slaughter ceaselessly from that time on. Enlightenment in the Word: the righteous God is not mocked! And the Son of God is not offended!

Matt. 27:26 “Then he released Barabbas to them; and when he had scourged Jesus, he delivered Him to be crucified.” YLT: “Then did he release to them Barabbas, and having scourged Jesus, he delivered [him] up that he may be crucified;” The Background: whips which were used by Romans to scourge criminals were made of leather belt on which there were small bones or metal. The whips could make those who were scourged bruised and lacerated. Literal Meaning: “he delivered Him to be crucified.” Pontius Pilate made the Lord Jesus be crucified. This made both the Lord’s own words that how He would die and the prophecies in the Old Testament be fulfilled (See Deut. 21:23; Num. 21:8-9; Gal. 3:13). Enlightenment in the Word: 1) The deeds of Pontius Pilate are the classic representative of the world (especially political men)------they confused right and wrong, ignored the truth and only sought that they should not let “the tumult rise” apparently (See v.24). 2) Thank the Lord. We, the condemned prisoners, are able to be “released” because He was “delivered”. With His stripes we are healed (See Is. 53:5). What salvation!

Matt. 27:27 “Then the soldiers of the governor took Jesus into the Praetorium and gathered the whole garrison around Him.” YLT: “then the soldiers of the governor having taken Jesus to the Praetorium, did gather to him all the band;” Literal Meaning: “took Jesus into the Praetorium” “Praetorium” was the official mansion of the governor in Jerusalem. Spiritual Meaning: “gathered the whole garrison around Him” This symbolizes the gathering of the forces of darkness and they started the deathful attack to the Lord Jesus.

Matt. 27:28 “And they stripped Him and put a scarlet robe on Him.” YLT: “and having unclothed him, they put around him a crimson cloak,” Literal Meaning: “put a scarlet robe on Him” “Scarlet robe” was original the robe of Roman soldiers. The scarlet is close to the purple which royalty wear and therefore they use the robe to act temporarily as the imperial gown. They dressed Him up as the king of the Jews to mock and humiliate Him. Spiritual Meaning: “put a scarlet robe on Him” “Scarlet” is the color of sin (See Is. 1:18) and therefore here it symbolizes that the Lord put on the likeness of sinful flesh (See Rom. 8:3).

Matt. 27:29 “When they had twisted a crown of thorns, they put it on His head, and a reed in His right hand. And they bowed the knee before Him and mocked Him, saying, ‘Hail, King of the Jews!’” YLT: “and having plaited him a crown out of thorns they put [it] on his head, and a reed in his right hand, and having kneeled before him, they were mocking him, saying, `Hail, the king of the Jews.’” Literal Meaning: They dressed Jesus as the king of the Jews, with a crown of thorns to replace the royal crown and a reed to replace the mace of king, in order to mock Him. Spiritual Meaning: “they had twisted a crown of thorns, they put it on His head” “Thorns” are the sign of being cursed by God (See Gen. 3:17-18). They put thorns on His head, symbolizing that He was cursed on the cross. “A reed in His right hand” “Reed” is the sign of weakness (See Matt. 12:20); the reed as the mace symbolizes that He experienced pain of weak life. Enlightenment in the Word: 1) “When they had twisted a crown of thorns, they put it on His head.” The Lord Jesus was made a curse for us on the cross (See Gal. 3:13). 2) Red robe (See v.28), crown and mace are all sings of king, however, they became the sign of humiliation on the cross. Because the Lord was humiliated, we unexpectedly are exalted. Oh! The cross He bore is glory to us, though shame to the Lord.

Matt. 27:30 “Then they spat on Him, and took the reed and struck Him on the head.” YLT: “And having spit on him, they took the reed, and were smiting on his head;” Spiritual Meaning: “they spat on Him” “Face” symbolizes men’s honor; “spat on Him” symbolizes the extreme humiliation. “Took the reed and struck Him on the head.” “Head” symbolizes men’s power; “took the reed and struck Him on the head” shows the extreme insult.

Matt. 27:31 “And when they had mocked Him, they took the robe off Him, put His own clothes on Him, and led Him away to be crucified.” YLT: “and when they had mocked him, they took off from him the cloak, and put on him his own garments, and led him away to crucify [him].” The Background: it is said that when the Jews killed the lamb of the Passover in old days, they tied the four limbs of the lamb on the wooden framework of the cross and made it shed and be dried up unto death. Therefore the Lord was “crucified” and this completely fulfilled that He is the type of the lamb of the Passover (See Is. 53:7-8; 1Cor. 5:7; John. 1:29). The cruel torture of the cross was only used for a short time around the time when the Lord Jesus was on the world in the history of the Roman Empire. It seemed that it was specially arranged by God for the fulfillment of the prophecy and typifications of the Old Testament (See Num. 21:8-9; Deut. 21:23; Acts. 13:9; Gal. 3:13).

Matt. 27:32 “Now as they came out, they found a man of Cyrene, Simon by name. Him they compelled to bear His cross.” YLT: “And coming forth, they found a man, a Cyrenian, by name Simon: him they impressed that he might bear his cross;” Literal Meaning: “they found a man of Cyrene, Simon by name.” “Cyrene” was the name of a place in the North Africa; “Simon” was a Jewish name. He may be a Jewish who lived in Cyrene (See Acts. 11:20; 13:1) and he specially came to Jerusalem to the feast. “ Him they compelled” “Compelled” means to force one to serve by threatening ways. “ To bear His cross.” Usually the cross is taken by the prisoner himself. Probably, Jesus was too weak to bear the cross at that time. Spiritual Meaning: “bear Jesus’ cross” means to have communion with His suffering and fill up that which is behind of the afflictions of Christ in the flesh (See Col. 1:24). Enlightenment in the Word: 1) Simon of Cyrene is the father of Rufus (See Mark. 15:21). The whole family was unexpectedly saved because he took the cross of the Lord (See Rom. 16:13). Believers were compelled to take the cross under God’s dominating arrangements, however, the “compel” is the way of blessing. 2) “Being compelled” indicates to fight against our likes, interests, natural feelings and etc. However, precious lessons are usually hidden in many things that are not welcome.

Matt. 27:33 “And when they had come to a place called Golgotha, that is to say, Place of a Skull,” YLT: “and having come to a place called Golgotha, that is called Place of a Skull,” Meaning of Words: “Golgotha”: the skull; the place to stack the skull. Literal Meaning: “Golgotha” is a Hebrew name and it means “the place of a skull” (See John. 19:17); it was called Calvary (Luke. 23:33, KJV) and it was translated from Latin and it had the same meaning with Golgotha. It is said that the shape of this massif is like the skull of dead ones and therefore so it was named. The Lord Jesus was crucified in this place. Enlightenment in the Word: Our natural minds and old concepts are “the skulls of dead ones” and we should crucify them in the massif of “Golgotha” and should never let them stir up trouble.

Matt. 27:34 “they gave Him sour wine mingled with gall to drink. But when He had tasted it, He would not drink.” YLT: “they gave him to drink vinegar mixed with gall, and having tasted, he would not drink.” Literal Meaning: “sour wine mingled with gall” “wine” is “vinegar” in the original. It was similar to the narcotic and it could help men to ease pain. “When He had tasted it, He would not drink.” It means that He was willing to bear the pain of the punishment of sins until death (See Ps. 69:21). Enlightenment in the Word: 1) The Lord Jesus bore the suffering of the cross Himself and refused any help and comfort from men. Those who truly take the cross should never seek any help or comfort besides God. 2) Anyone who feels painful in themselves and need others’ comfort is not the one who takes up the cross. 3) The Lord Himself had tasted the suffering for us and therefore He is able to be touched with our feelings (See Heb. 4:15).

Matt. 27:35 “Then they crucified Him, and divided His garments, casting lots, that it might be fulfilled which was spoken by the prophet: ‘They divided My garments among them, And for My clothing they cast lots.’” YLT: “And having crucified him, they divided his garments, casting a lot, that it might be fulfilled that was spoken by the prophet, `They divided my garments to themselves, and over my vesture they cast a lot;’” Literal Meaning: “they divided His garments, casting lots”. The prophet in Ps. 28:18 was fulfilled. Enlightenment in the Word: 1) The world usually stresses on good works of the Lord Jesus (“divided His garments”) and is unwilling to receive the life of Christ (“they crucified Him”). 2) Believers always attend to trifles and neglect the essentials. They are fervent in searching the Bible, however, they are unwilling to come to the Lord to have life (See John. 5:39-40).

Matt. 27:36 “Sitting down, they kept watch over Him there.” YLT: “and sitting down, they were watching him there,”

Matt. 27:37 “And they put up over His head the accusation written against Him: THIS IS JESUS THE KING OF THE JEWS.” YLT: “and they put up over his head, his accusation written, `This is Jesus, the king of the Jews.’” Literal Meaning: “the accusation written against Him” According to the records in the Book of John, the words of the accusation was written in Hebrew, and Greek and Latin. “THIS IS JESUS THE KING OF THE JEWS.” In men’s sight, the accusation is a kind of mock both to the Lord and the Jews (See John. 19:21), however, it shows that He was crucified for this. Enlightenment in the Word: 1) Only through the death of the cross will the life of king be manifested. 2) The way of the world to be king is to attack cities and capture territories, however, the way for believers to reign in life (See Rom. 5:17) is through the death of the cross.

Matt. 27:38 “Then two robbers were crucified with Him, one on the right and another on the left.” YLT: “Then crucified with him are two robbers, one on the right hand, and one on the left,” Literal Meaning: this verse shows that: a) the prophecy is fulfilled that “He was numbered with the transgressors” (Is. 53:12); b) He was on the tree with the position of a sinner and therefore He His own self bore our sins (See 1Pet. 2:24). Enlightenment in the Word: 1) Christ crucified is the center of mankind and all and He will draw all to Him (See John. 12:32). 2) Men’s fates depend on Christ crucified. If one receives Him, he will be saved and have eternal life; if one refuses Him, he will perish and enter the everlasting fire. 3) He, on the cross, destroyed, through death, him that had the power of death, that is, the devil and deliver them who through fear of death were all their lifetime subject to bondage (i.e. robbers) (See Heb. 2:14-15).

Matt. 27:39 “And those who passed by blasphemed Him, wagging their heads” YLT: “and those passing by were speaking evil of him, wagging their heads,” Literal Meaning: “wagging their heads” is the posture of the Jews to mock others.

Matt. 27:40 “and saying, ‘You who destroy the temple and build it in three days, save Yourself! If You are the Son of God, come down from the cross.’” YLT: “and saying, `Thou that art throwing down the sanctuary, and in three days building [it], save thyself; if Son thou art of God, come down from the cross.’” Literal Meaning: “you who destroy the temple and build it in three days.” This word shows that they misused the words of the Lord because they did not understand the words (See John. 2:19-21). “If You are the Son of God, come down from the cross.” This indicates that they do not understand the principle with which God works and they think that the Son of God could walk at will (See John. 8:28). They do not know it is the clear proof of the Son of God that the Lord did not come down from the cross (See Rom. 1:4).

Matt. 27:41 “Likewise the chief priests also, mocking with the scribes and elders, said,” YLT: “And in like manner also the chief priests mocking, with the scribes and elders, said,”

Matt. 27:42 “‘He saved others; Himself He cannot save. If He is the King of Israel, let Him now come down from the cross, and we will believe Him.” YLT: “`Others he saved; himself he is not able to save! If he be King of Israel, let him come down now from the cross, and we will believe him;” Enlightenment in the Word: 1) God’s will is to achieve His plan of salvation through the death of the cross. Those who are held by God in His will always “save others and themselves they cannot save”. And only those who do not save themselves are able to save others. If He saves Himself, He could not save us. 2) The death of the cross is the way to lead to resurrection------supply life through death------if death works in us, life will work in others (See 2Cor. 4:11- 12). 3) The cross is to deny oneself (See Matt. 16:24) and therefore the meaning of the cross is to save others and not save oneself; anyone who is self-centered needs to receive the dealing of the cross.

Matt. 27:43 “He trusted in God; let Him deliver Him now if He will have Him; for He said, ‘I am the Son of God.’” YLT: “he hath trusted on God, let Him now deliver him, if He wish him, because he said Son of God I am;’” Literal Meaning: “let Him deliver Him now if He will have Him.” This shows men’s natural religious concepts that God will save and deliver someone from outward harm and suffering if God likes him. The Lord was mocked on the cross by those who passed by (See v.39), the chief priests, the scribes and elders (See v.41), and the robbers who were crucified with Him (See v.44); the key of their mocks is that if He indeed is the Son of God, He must have the power to save Himself and at least God won’t sit by and watch His Son being crucified unto death. Enlightenment in the Word: 1) Though believers are daughters of God, He does not always deliver us from sufferings; Paul the apostle deeply pleased God, however, he suffered much more than us. 2) Natural men do not know the spiritual principle: the greatest power of those who are of spirit is to control oneself and restrict oneself; those who are truly of spirit could do all things through Christ who strengthens them (See Pill. 4:13), however, they do not do many things because they do not seek their own profit, but the profit of others (See 1Cor. 10:23-24, 33). 3) It is the manifestation of the Son of God that He does not do what He is “able to do” (See John. 5:19, 30; 8:28). Moreover, those who truly believe in God not only believe that God will do something for them but also believe that God always does not do something for them; the greatest faith is to entrust oneself to God and believe that whether God does something or not depends on God Himself. We merely thank God for His goodwill (See Matt. 11:25-27; 1Thess. 5:18).

Matt. 27:44 “Even the robbers who were crucified with Him reviled Him with the same thing.” YLT: “with the same also the robbers, who were crucified with him, were reproaching him.”

Matt. 27:45 “Now from the sixth hour until the ninth hour there was darkness over all the land.” YLT: “And from the sixth hour darkness came over all the land unto the ninth hour,” Literal Meaning: “from the sixth hour until the ninth hour” indicates from twelve o’clock at noon to three o’clock in the afternoon. The Lord Jesus was crucified at the third hour (nine o’clock in the morning) (See Mark. 15:25) and therefore there are six hours from the third hour to the ninth hour; in the first three hour, He suffered the pain of being persecuted and mocked and in the next three hour, He suffered the pain of being judged and forsaken. Spiritual Meaning: “there was darkness over all the land.” “Darkness” symbolizes that God hid His face from Him and forsook Him; the Lord Jesus was forsaken by God because He bore sins of men. It shows how horrible the sins that He bore are. Enlightenment in the Word: 1) Wish believers realize the horribleness of sins and preciousness of God’s presence in His countenance. 2) “There was darkness over all the land.” It shows our sin, sins and all dark and negative things were judged and dealt with by God with the Lord on the cross.

Matt. 27:46 “And about the ninth hour Jesus cried out with a loud voice, saying, ‘Eli, Eli, lama sabachthani?’ that is, ‘My God, My God, why have You forsaken Me?’” YLT: “and about the ninth hour Jesus cried out with a great voice, saying, `Eli, Eli, lama sabachthani?’ that is, `My God, my God, why didst Thou forsake me?’” Literal Meaning: “Eli, Eli, lama sabachthani?” “Eli, Eli” is Hebrew and “lama sabachthani” is Aramaic. “ My God, My God, why have You forsaken Me?” Jesus, standing in the position of a sinner on the cross at that time, bore our sins (See 1Pet. 2:24; Is. 53:6) and was made to be sin for us (See 2Cor. 5:21). Therefore the righteous God had to forsake Him (See Ps. 22:19). The Lord Jesus was with God all His life and was forsaken by God in the three hours. This was the extreme pain of the Son of God and therefore He gave such a blood curdling scream.

Matt. 27:47 “Some of those who stood there, when they heard that, said, ‘This Man is calling for Elijah!’” YLT: “And certain of those standing there having heard, said `Elijah he doth call;’” Literal Meaning: “This Man is calling for Elijah!” “Elijah” was the forerunner of the Messiah in the hearts of the Jews; those who were present heard Jesus call “Eli” and misunderstood that He was calling “Elijah”.

Matt. 27:48 “Immediately one of them ran and took a sponge, filled it with sour wine and put it on a reed, and offered it to Him to drink.” YLT: “and immediately, one of them having run, and having taken a spunge, having filled [it] with vinegar, and having put [it] on a reed, was giving him to drink,” Literal Meaning: they showed their mocks towards Him to offer the reed filled with sour wine to Jesus (See Luke. 23:36). Unexpectedly, their behavior made the prophecy of the Old Testament be fulfilled (See Ps. 69:21; John. 19:28-29). On the last moment before the Lord Jesus breathed His last, He was still mocked and derided by men. It shows that men’s words and deeds are in God’s foreknowledge and predestination.

Matt. 27:49 “The rest said, ‘Let Him alone; let us see if Elijah will come to save Him.’” YLT: “but the rest said, `Let alone, let us see if Elijah doth come about to save him.’”

Matt. 27:50 “And Jesus cried out again with a loud voice, and yielded up His spirit.” YLT: “And Jesus having again cried with a great voice, yielded the spirit;” Literal Meaning: “yielded up His spirit.” The wording in the original intentionally indicates that the death of Jesus was different from the death of being killed or suicide and His death was a behavior to sacrifice His life (See John. 10:18; 19:30).

Matt. 27:51 “Then, behold, the veil of the temple was torn in two from top to bottom; and the earth quaked, and the rocks were split,” YLT: “and lo, the vail of the sanctuary was rent in two from top unto bottom, and the earth did quake, and the rocks were rent,” The Background: the veil of the temple is the veil of inner layer that divides the holy place and the most holy (See Exod. 26:33). Spiritual Meaning: “the veil of the temple was torn in two” typified that the flesh of the Lord was broken for us and therefore He opened a new and living way so that we could have boldness to enter into the holiest by Him and come boldly unto the throne of grace, that we may obtain mercy, and find grace to help in time of need (See Heb. 10:19-20; 4:16). “ From top to bottom” shows that the death of the cross was done by God from above; the fact that we have died with the Lord has already been done perfectly by God. “The earth quaked, and the rocks were split.” It symbolizes that Christ quaked the earthly kingdom of Satan through the death of the cross (See Heb. 12:26-27) and broken down the foundation of the power of its darkness (See Hag. 2:21-22). “The rocks were split” also symbolizes that Christ the Rock (See 1Cor. 10:4) was smitten by God on the cross and He was broken up and water of life came out (See Exod. 17:6; John. 19:34) for our thirst. Enlightenment in the Word: 1) Christ is our way (See John. 14:6); only through Him are we able to come to God. 2) Wherefore we receiving a kingdom which cannot be moved, let us have grace, whereby we may serve God acceptably with reverence and godly fear (Heb. 12:28).

Matt. 27:52 “and the graves were opened; and many bodies of the saints who had fallen asleep were raised;” YLT: “and the tombs were opened, and many bodies of the saints who have fallen asleep, arose,” Literal Meaning: “the saints who had fallen asleep” indicate the dead saints (See 1Cor. 11:30; 15:18-20). Spiritual Meaning: “the graves were opened” symbolizes that Christ, through the death of the cross, collapsed the power of death and Hades (See 1Cor. 15:55; Rev. 1:18). “Many bodies of the saints who had fallen asleep were raised.” It symbolizes that Christ, through the death of the cross, released the life of resurrection. Enlightenment in the Word: since believers have received Christ’s life of resurrection, they should manifest it at that time.

Matt. 27:53 “and coming out of the graves after His resurrection, they went into the holy city and appeared to many.” YLT: “and having come forth out of the tombs after his rising, they went into the holy city, and appeared to many.” Literal Meaning: please note that: graves were opened when the Lord Jesus yielded up His spirit. However, “after His resurrection”, the events that dead ones “came out of the graves” and “appeared to” many took place. Spiritual Meaning: Christ Himself was “the first-fruits” of resurrection (See 1Cor. 15:20), however, in the Old Testament, “the first-fruits of the harvest” is not an ear of wheat but a sheaf of wheat (See Lev. 23:10-11). This shows that “the first-fruit of the harvest” not only typify Christ of resurrection but also typify the saints who also resurrect in Christ that whom this scripture represents. Enlightenment in the Word: 1) Christ is the first-born from the dead (See Col. 1:18; Rev. 1:5). Since Christ has resurrected, those who believe in Him shall resurrect (See John. 11:25). 2) If we only know the death of the Lord, we have been quickened, however, we are still tied up in tombs and we are not free. However, until we know the resurrection of Christ, we are able to come out of tombs, be delivered from death, binding and control, enter the everlasting will of God (“the holy city”) and bear glorious witness towards men (“appeared to many”).

Matt. 27:54 “So when the centurion and those with him, who were guarding Jesus, saw the earthquake and the things that had happened, they feared greatly, saying, ‘Truly this was the Son of God!’” YLT: “And the centurion, and those with him watching Jesus, having seen the earthquake, and the things that were done, were exceedingly afraid, saying, `Truly this was God’s Son.’” Enlightenment in the Word: the centurion and those with him represent the Gentile unbelievers. Because they saw the effect of the Lord’s death and resurrection, they have to admit that, “truly this was the Son of God.” The most effective way for believers to preach the glad tidings is to display the fact that the cross of Christ had done on us to everybody. If men see “the marks of the Lord Jesus” in our bodies (See Gal. 6:17), naturally they will see that, “truly this was the Son of God.”

Matt. 27:55 “And many women who followed Jesus from Galilee, ministering to Him, were there looking on from afar,” YLT: “And there were there many women beholding from afar, who did follow Jesus from Galilee, ministering to him,” Enlightenment in the Word: these women represent common and weak believers who are despised by others. They usually followed and served the Lord quietly and when other disciples forsook the Lord and fled (See Matt. 26:56), they kept following the Lord until the cross, i.e. following the Lord until the deathtrap. Therefore they could bear witness to His death and resurrection (See Acts. 3:15). If we want to be the Lord’s witnesses, we have to follow Him until the deathtrap.

Matt. 27:56 “among whom were Mary Magdalene, Mary the mother of James and Joses, and the mother of Zebedee's sons.” YLT: “among whom was Mary the Magdalene, and Mary the mother of James and of Joses, and the mother of the sons of Zebedee.” Literal Meaning: “Mary the mother of James and Joses” It was Mary the mother of Jesus (See Matt. 13:55). “And the mother of Zebedee’s sons” Her name may be Salome (See Mark. 16:1). It is said that she was the sister of Mary the mother of Jesus (See John. 19:25).

Matt. 27:57 “Now when evening had come, there came a rich man from Arimathea, named Joseph, who himself had also become a disciple of Jesus.” YLT: “And evening having come, there came a rich man, from Arimathea, named Joseph, who also himself was discipled to Jesus,” Literal Meaning: “when evening had come” “Evening” in the originally indicates the time from dark to sunset and the Sabbath is from six o’clock after the sunset of that day (Friday) to six o’clock after the sunset of the next day (Saturday). Therefore this day could be counted as “the day before the Sabbath” (See Mark. 15:42). “ From Arimathea” “Arimathea” was a small town on the side of mount Ephraim which was about twenty miles away from Jerusalem in the northwest. “Who himself had also become a disciple of Jesus.” Joseph, like Nicodemus, was a disciple of Jesus secretly (See John. 3:19:38-39). He was courageous to show his identity because he was moved by the love of the Lord who died for us on the cross. Here it specially stated that he was “a rich man”, by this proving that even the burial of the Lord Jesus was to make the prophecy that “He was with the rich in His death” be fulfilled (See Is. 53:9).

Matt. 27:58 “This man went to Pilate and asked for the body of Jesus. Then Pilate commanded the body to be given to him.” YLT: “he having gone near to Pilate, asked for himself the body of Jesus; then Pilate commanded the body to be given back.”

Matt. 27:59 “When Joseph had taken the body, he wrapped it in a clean linen cloth,” YLT: “And having taken the body, Joseph wrapped it in clean linen,” Enlightenment in the Word: “he wrapped it in a clean linen cloth.” Believers’ behavior should be clean, holy, gentle and well-balanced and we should not let sin reign in our mortal body (See Rom. 6:12).

Matt. 27:60 “and laid it in his new tomb which he had hewn out of the rock; and he rolled a large stone against the door of the tomb, and departed.” YLT: “and laid it in his new tomb, that he hewed in the rock, and having rolled a great stone to the door of the tomb, he went away;” Literal Meaning: “which he had hewn out of the rock.” This tomb was not hewn under the earth but hew out of the rock. Spiritual Meaning: the tomb which was used to bury the Lord was originally hewn by Joseph for himself. This typifies that the old men of believers had been crucified with the Lord Jesus and buried into death by baptism (See Rom. 6:3-6; Col. 2:12). Therefore the body in the tomb could also indicate the old men and old members of believers. Rolling a large stone against the door of the tomb means that do not let the dead old men behave (See Eph. 4:22; Col. 3:9) and do not yield our members as instruments of unrighteousness unto sin (See Rom. 6:13).

Matt. 27:61 “And Mary Magdalene was there, and the other Mary, sitting opposite the tomb.” YLT: “and there were there Mary the Magdalene, and the other Mary, sitting over-against the sepulchre.” Literal Meaning: “the other Mary” Someone said that the one here indicated “Mary the wife of Cleophas” (See John. 19:25), however, Matthew had not mentioned her previously and therefore the one probably indicates Mary the mother of Jesus (See v.56); “the other” means the exclusive and special one.

Matt. 27:62 “On the next day, which followed the Day of Preparation, the chief priests and Pharisees gathered together to Pilate,” YLT: “And on the morrow that is after the preparation, were gathered together the chief priests, and the Pharisees, unto Pilate,” Literal Meaning: “the next day” indicates Saturday, i.e. the Sabbath. “Which followed the Day of Preparation” “The Day of Preparation” indicates the day to prepare for the Passover (See Matt. 26:19; John. 19:14) which is from the sunset of Thursday to the sunset of Friday and therefore Saturday is counted as the day that followed the Day of Preparation.

Matt. 27:63 “saying, ‘Sir, we remember, while He was still alive, how that deceiver said, ‘After three days I will rise.'” YLT: “saying, `Sir, we have remembered that that deceiver said while yet living, After three days I do rise;” Spiritual Meaning: the power of darkness of Satan greatly was afraid of the witness of life of resurrection and therefore they used up religious ways (what the chief priests and the scribes stand for) and political power (what Pontius Pilate stands for) to lock the Lord and those who are of the Lord in death, however, it was impossible that He should be held of death (See Acts. 2:24).

Matt. 27:64 “Therefore command that the tomb be made secure until the third day, lest His disciples come by night and steal Him away, and say to the people, ‘He has risen from the dead.' So the last deception will be worse than the first.’” YLT: “command, then, the sepulchre to be made secure till the third day, lest his disciples, having come by night, may steal him away, and may say to the people, He rose from the dead, and the last deceit shall be worse than the first.’” Literal Meaning: “so the last deception will be worse than the first.” “The first deception” indicates that Jesus is the Messiah; “the last deception” indicates that He arose from the dead. The constant trick of the enemy is the lie and deception (See John. 8:44; 2Cor. 11:13-14) and therefore its subordinates specially keep a look out others’ deceptions.

Matt. 27:65 “Pilate said to them, ‘You have a guard; go your way, make it as secure as you know how.’” YLT: “And Pilate said to them, ‘Ye have a watch, go away, make secure as ye have known;’” Literal Meaning: “You have a guard.” means that “I give you a guard”.

Matt. 27:66 “So they went and made the tomb secure, sealing the stone and setting the guard.” YLT: “and they, having gone, did make the sepulchre secure, having sealed the stone, together with the watch.” Literal Meaning: the enemy used three kinds of strict measures: the large stone, the seal and soldiers to guard the body of the Lord Jesus. So it shows the trueness and uniqueness of His resurrection more clearly. As it is recorded in the Bible, the Lord takes the wise in their own craftiness (See 1Cor. 3:19).

The Death of King I. He received the judgment of death: A. The reason why the Lord was delivered to the governor------it was not lawful for the council to put any man to death (v.1-2). B. The ending of Judas showed that the innocent Lord was made to be sin for sinners (v.3-10). C. We the prisoners of death are released because He was appointed to death (v.11-26). II. He received the punishment of death: A. He bore the humiliation of the cross (v.27-30). B. Filling up that which is behind of the afflictions of Christ in the flesh (v.31- 32). C. He experienced the suffering of the cross (v.33-36). D. He was mocked by men on the cross (v.37-44). E. He was forsaken by God on the cross (v.45-50). III. The effect and testimony of the Lord’s death: A. The effect of the Lord’s death: 1. He opened an access to God for us (v.51a). 2. All creatures die with Christ (v.51a). 3. His death shook and collapsed the power of death (v.51b-52a). 4. He released and manifested the life of resurrection (v.52b-53). B. The testimony of the effect of the Lord’s death (v.54-56). IV. The Lord’s being buried: A. Its meaning on one side------we were buried with the Lord (v.57-61). B. Its meaning on the other------death tried its best to lock the life of resurrection (v.62-66).

Men’s Treatment towards the Lord I. Religious leaders opposed Him (v.1-2). II. Judas (the disciple) betrayed Him (v.3-10). III. The Roman government disregarded Him (v.11-26). IV. Soldiers mocked Him (v.27-31).

Five Kinds of Men under the Cross I. The one who merely had name instead of willingness------Simon who was forced to take the cross of the Lord (v.32). II. Those who merely had intents instead of minds------soldiers who gave Him sour wine mingled with gall (v.34). III. Those who merely had eyes instead of abilities------soldiers who divided His garments, casting lots and kept watch over Him (v.35-36). IV. The one who wrote the accusation but did not have consciousness------Pontius Pilate who wrote the accusation of the Lord (v.37). V. Those who did not know that they had said------all kinds of people who mocked the Lord (v.38-44).

The Supernatural Scenes when the Lord Was Crucified I. There was darkness over all the land------He bore sins for sinners and God hid His face from Him (v.45). II. The veil of the temple was torn------an access to God was opened (v.51b). III. The earth quaked------He overcame the earthly power (v.51b). IV. The graves were opened------He overcame the power of death and Hades (v.52a). V. The saints were raised and went into the holy cities------the life of resurrection is shown (v.52b-53).

Matthew Chapter Twenty-eight

Resurrection of the Lord: I. The testimony of resurrection: A. The time and witnesses of resurrection (v.1). B. Angels spread glad tidings of resurrection (v.1-7). C. The appearance of resurrection (v.8-10). D. The lie against resurrection (v.11-15). II. Resurrection is in power: A. They gathered together on the mountain of Galilee (v.16-17). B. The declaration of authority that the Lord had gained (v.18). C. The proclamation of the mission (v.19-20a). D. The promise of the Lord’s presence (v.20b).

Matt. 28:1 “Now after the Sabbath, as the first day of the week began to dawn, Mary Magdalene and the other Mary came to see the tomb.” YLT: “And on the eve of the sabbaths, at the dawn, toward the first of the sabbaths, came Mary the Magdalene, and the other Mary, to see the sepulchre,” Literal Meaning: “after the Sabbath” It is “after” because the Sabbath ended at sunset of Saturday. “The first day of the week” There are seven days in the Jewish calendar and the seventh day is the Sabbath (See Gen. 2:2-3). Therefore the Sabbath is the last day of a weak and the day following the Sabbath is the beginning of another weak, i.e. Sunday and “the Lord’s day” of Christians today (See Rev. 1:10). The Jews called Sunday “the first day of the week” and Christians called Sunday “the Lord’s day” which is for the memorial of resurrection of the Lord Jesus (See Acts. 20:7; 1Cor. 16:2). “The other Mary” Please see the literal meaning of Matt. 26:61. “ Came to see the tomb.” Their aim was to anoint the body of Jesus (See Mark. 16:1). Spiritual Meaning: “the first day of the week” symbolizes the beginning of a new dispensation. The Lord’s death and burial ended the old creation and the Lord’s resurrection brought in the new creation. “Began to dawn” symbolizes that the life of resurrection of the Lord breaks through the power of darkness and brings in the dayspring to those sit in darkness and in the shadow of death (See Matt. 4:16; Luke. 1:78-79). “Mary Magdalene and the other Mary” These two “Mary”s followed the Lord until the cross (See Matt. 27:56-57). They were the last to leave the tomb (See Matt. 27:61) and the first to come to the tomb and therefore they could represent those who are so attracted by the Lord’s love that they love and seek the Lord. Enlightenment in the Word: 1) The Lord Jesus rose on “the first day of the week”. It symbolizes that resurrection of Christ brings in a new starting; old things are passed away, behold, all things are become new (2Cor. 5:17). 2) “Began to dawn” Whenever believers live in the old creation, they live in the shadow of night; whenever believers live in the new creation, they have spiritual daybreak. 3) The Lord Jesus raised the third day of His death (See Matt. 16:21; 17:23; 20:19). However, in the work of re-creation in the beginning, God brought in life the third day (See Gen. 1:11-13). Therefore that the Lord raised the third day symbolized the manifestation of the life of God. 4) The Lord said that, “I am the resurrection, and the life” (John. 11:25). The resurrection not only shows that He is the originator (See Acts. 3:15) but also shows that death is swallowed up of life (2Cor. 4:10-11; 5:4).

Matt. 28:2 “And behold, there was a great earthquake; for an angel of the Lord descended from heaven, and came and rolled back the stone from the door, and sat on it.” YLT: “and lo, there came a great earthquake, for a messenger of the Lord, having come down out of heaven, having come, did roll away the stone from the door, and was sitting upon it,” Literal Meaning: “there was a great earthquake.” According to the records elsewhere of the Bible, v.2-4 in this chapter must state things that happened before women came to the tomb (See Mark. 16:2-6; Luke. 24:1-7; John. 20:1). Therefore when they came to the tomb, they saw soldiers fall on the ground and become like dead men and shining angels sit on the rock at the same time (See v.3-4). “An angel of the Lord descended from heaven” The angel announced glad tidings during the birth of the Lord (See Luke. 2:10) and the angel approved the fact when the Lord arose. Both things shook heaven and earth and therefore angels from heaven came to preach the news and they were saw and heard by men on earth. “ Rolled back the stone from the door” The aim to roll the stone is to let women enter in (See v.6) instead of to let the Lord Jesus come out (because there is no need to do so for Him). Spiritual Meaning: “there was a great earthquake” symbolizes that the fact of resurrection shook the earthly power and the old creation was removed, that those things which cannot be shaken may remain (See Heb. 12:27). “ Rolled back the stone from the door” symbolizes that the power of resurrection has removed all the obstacles and makes life be manifested.

Matt. 28:3 “His countenance was like lightning, and his clothing as white as snow.” YLT: “and his countenance was as lightning, and his clothing white as snow,” Spiritual Meaning: “His countenance was like lightning” symbolizes that it is full of the heavenly glory in the realm of resurrection. “His clothing as white as snow” symbolizes that everything is holy and bright in the realm of resurrection.

Matt. 28:4 “And the guards shook for fear of him, and became like dead men.” YLT: “and from the fear of him did the keepers shake, and they became as dead men.” Spiritual Meaning: “the guards” symbolize officers of dark Hades. This verse symbolizes that when the witness of resurrection (the angel) appeared, forces of darkness lost their power.

Matt. 28:5 “But the angel answered and said to the women, ‘Do not be afraid, for I know that you seek Jesus who was crucified.” YLT: “And the messenger answering said to the women, `Fear not ye, for I have known that Jesus, who hath been crucified, ye seek;” Spiritual Meaning: “women” symbolize believers who are of the Lord and love the Lord. This verse symbolizes that the message of resurrection brought in rejoice (See v.9) and comfort to those who are of the Lord. Enlightenment in the Word: 1) “For I know that you seek Jesus who was crucified.” If any man loves God, the same is “known” of Him (1Cor. 8:3). 2) As long as there is first a willing mind, it is accepted to Him (2Cor. 8:12).

Matt. 28:6 “He is not here; for He is risen, as He said. Come, see the place where the Lord lay.” YLT: “he is not here, for he rose, as he said; come, see the place where the Lord was lying;” Literal Meaning: “He is risen, as He said.” When the Lord Jesus was alive, He told again and again to His disciples that He would be killed and raised up (See Matt. 16:21; 17:23; 20:19). The Lord’s words never fail and things shall be even as it was said by the Lord. Moreover, the Old Testament (i.e. God’s words) which are said concerning the Lord Jesus that He must be risen from the dead must be fulfilled (See Luke. 24:44-46; Ps. 16:10; Acts. 13:34-35). Enlightenment in the Word: 1) “He is not here.” Though He has been in the tomb, the tomb is not His terminal; all the same, we all shall die, however, death is not our terminal. 2) Death could not lock Him as the tomb cannot hold Him (See Acts. 2:24). Believers also cannot remain in the places of death. Since we have already had this life of resurrection, we should usually have the experience that “death is swallowed up of life”. 3) If Christ is not risen, then our faith is vain (1Cor. 15:14) because: a) The Lord Jesus was declared to be the Son of God with power, by the resurrection form the dead (Rom. 1:4). b) God has proved that the Lord Jesus is the Son of God to us His children, in that He has raised up Jesus (Acts. 13:33; Ps. 2:7). c) Jesus was delivered for our offences, and was raised again for our justification (Rom. 4:25). d) If Christ is not raised, we are yet in our sins (1Cor. 15:17). e) Christ was risen from the dead, and became the first-fruits of the them that slept. Even so in Christ shall all be made alive (1Cor. 15:20-23). f) If believers won’t be risen, in this life we only have hope in Christ and we are of all men most miserable (1Cor. 15:19).

Matt. 28:7 “And go quickly and tell His disciples that He is risen from the dead, and indeed He is going before you into Galilee; there you will see Him. Behold, I have told you.’” YLT: “and having gone quickly, say ye to his disciples, that he rose from the dead; and lo, he doth go before you to Galilee, there ye shall see him; lo, I have told you.’” Literal Meaning: “He is going before you into Galilee” It is to remind the disciples what the Lord had said after the Feast of the Passover (See Matt. 26:32). “ Behold, I have told you.” It shows that the instruction is very serious and women should do the things that were instructed to them well. Enlightenment in the Word: 1) The witness of resurrection strengthens those who are of the Lord and makes them be firm (See 1Cor. 15:58). It also leads men to meet the Lord Himself. Therefore we should “go quickly and tell His disciples that He is risen from the dead”. 2) The risen Christ is the common information of the angel and human beings. Those who are in heaven and on earth should try their best to declare Him. 3) The message of resurrection were unexpectedly told to the strong apostles by weak women------in the church we should learn to be humble and modestly receive spiritual provision from any brother or sister. 4) “He is going before you into Galilee.” The Lord, like a shepherd, walks in front of the folk of sheep. He is our forerunner and He shall bring many sons unto glory (See Heb. 2:10). 5) “Into Galilee” When the king of heaven was on this world, He started to work in Galilee of the Gentiles (See Matt. 4:12-17) instead of Jerusalem the Holy City. Today after His resurrection, He went to Galilee instead of Jerusalem, showing that He completely rejected the earthly Judaism and preached the salvation of the New Testament to the Gentiles.

Matt. 28:8 “So they went out quickly from the tomb with fear and great joy, and ran to bring His disciples word.” YLT: “And having gone forth quickly from the tomb, with fear and great joy, they ran to tell to his disciples;” Literal Meaning: “with fear and great joy” They were with “fear” because the countenance of the angel is to be feared (See v.3-4); they were with “great joy” because the message from the angels is rejoicing that the Lord whom they loved was risen! Enlightenment in the Word: 1) It is the greatest joy for believers to know and experience resurrection of Christ. 2) We should learn from women’s attitude of “going out quickly”; we should be anxious to share with other believers any knowledge or experience of the risen Christ. 3) “Ran to bring His disciples word” The risen Christ is the center of all information; how beautiful are the feet of them that preach the gospel of grace, and bring glad tidings of good things (Rom. 10:15).

Matt. 28:9 “And as they went to tell His disciples, behold, Jesus met them, saying, ‘Rejoice!’ So they came and held Him by the feet and worshiped Him.” YLT: “and as they were going to tell to his disciples, then lo, Jesus met them, saying, `Hail!’ and they having come near, laid hold of his feet, and did bow to him.” The Background: “they came and held Him by the feet” “holding someone by the feet” is a ceremony for women in the land of Palestine to welcome distinguished guests. Enlightenment in the Word: 1) As long as we love the Lord like Mary Magdalene, the Lord must appear to us; loving the Lord is the prerequisite to meet the Lord. 2) The Lord’s appearing certainly will bring in us peace and rejoice and therefore the best way for us to receive more peace and rejoice is to love His appearing. 3) Only those who truly meet the Lord are able to worship Him sincerely (“they came and held Him by the feet and worshiped Him”)

Matt. 28:10 “Then Jesus said to them, ‘Do not be afraid. Go and tell My brethren to go to Galilee, and there they will see Me.’” YLT: “Then saith Jesus to them, `Fear ye not, go away, tell to my brethren that they may go away to Galilee, and there they shall see me.’” Enlightenment in the Word: the Lord here repeated the words of the angel (See v.5, 7), telling us that: a) The testimony which is truly of the Lord must be in complete accord with the Lord’s own words and the Lord is willing to restate and confirm it. b) The disciples had denied Him, forsook Him and fled because of weakness (See Matt. 26:56, 69-75), however, He did not forsake them because of this and contrarily He called them “brethren” (See John. 20:17; Heb. 2:11-12), showing His relation with them in the life of resurrection. c) Though it is the woman that brought death into this world (See the third chapter of Genesis), women also brought glad tidings of resurrection to the world. d) The Lord had told His disciples that: “after I am risen again, I will go before you into Galilee.” (See Matt. 26:32) and the Lord’s words must be fulfilled.

Matt. 28:11 “Now while they were going, behold, some of the guard came into the city and reported to the chief priests all the things that had happened.” YLT: “And while they are going on, lo, certain of the watch having come to the city, told to the chief priests all the things that happened,” Literal Meaning: “reported to the chief priests all things that had happened” It shows that these soldiers were assigned temporarily from Pilate to the council to guard the tomb (See Matt. 26:65-66).

Matt. 28:12 “When they had assembled with the elders and consulted together, they gave a large sum of money to the soldiers,” YLT: “and having been gathered together with the elders, counsel also having taken, they gave much money to the soldiers,” Literal Meaning: “they gave a large sum of money to the soldiers.” The soldiers had not been punished for their dereliction of duty, showing that the chief priests and the elders trusted that the report of soldiers were true. Unfortunately, they did not fear because of this and on the contrary they purposely covered the fact of Christ’s resurrection.

Matt. 28:13 “saying, ‘Tell them, ‘His disciples came at night and stole Him away while we slept.'” YLT: “saying, `Say ye, that his disciples having come by night, stole him we being asleep;” Literal Meaning: “tell them” shows that the following lie was not made up by soldiers and soldiers were instigated to tell the lie by the priests and others. “At night…while we slept” It was the very serious sin for guard to neglect the duty because of “sleep” and they even may be put to death. Enlightenment in the Word: 1) If the enemy could not use power to suppress the witness of Christ’s resurrection, it will use paradoxical deception to confuse and deceive all the people. 2) Night is the time for the forces of darkness to act wantonly. They are not permitted to “sleep” and they won’t “sleep”. Believers should awake out of sleep and live in the life of resurrection (See Rom. 13:11-12; Eph. 5:14) and then we are able to bear witness of the Lord’s resurrection and defeat the lie of the enemy.

Matt. 28:14 “And if this comes to the governor's ears, we will appease him and make you secure.’” YLT: “and if this be heard by the governor, we will persuade him, and you keep free from anxiety.’” Literal Meaning: this verse shows that the depraved religious believers and earthly politicians act in collusion and they make use of each other.

Matt. 28:15 “So they took the money and did as they were instructed; and this saying is commonly reported among the Jews until this day.” YLT: “And they, having received the money, did as they were taught, and this account was spread abroad among Jews till this day.” Literal Meaning: “until this day” “this day” indicates the time the book of Matthew was written. The words show that until several decades later, the Jews still used the saying that “the body was stolen” to resist the message that “Jesus was risen”. Enlightenment in the Word: 1) If men deal with the Lord’s resurrection with lie, they will also deal with the Lord’s church and believers with lie (See Acts. 24:5-9; 25:7). 2) The whole world is false and it is against the truth: religious believers (the high priests and the elders) made up the lie, evil villains (soldiers) spread the lie, politicians (the governor) connived at the lie and the world (the Jews) received and spread the lie. 3) If the enemy cannot hold back the Lord from being risen, it would use lies to confuse and deceive men. From generation to generation, if Satan could not hold back men from hearing and believing in glad tidings with unyielding means, it would use cunning means to make men have false understanding towards glad tidings. 4) Mammon is opposed to God (See Matt. 6:24) and it could make Judas betray the Lord (See Matt. 26:14-16) and guard oppose the witness of the Lord. Believers should be completely divorced from the power of mammon and then we are able to bear witness of the Lord’s resurrection.

Matt. 28:16 “Then the eleven disciples went away into Galilee, to the mountain which Jesus had appointed for them.” YLT: “And the eleven disciples went to Galilee, to the mount where Jesus appointed them,” Literal Meaning: “the eleven disciples went away into Galilee” Judas betrayed the Lord and hanged himself (See Matt. 27:5). There were only eleven apostles before Matthias was chosen to take Judas’ overseership (See Acts. 1:26). “ To the mountain which Jesus had appointed for them” In the book of Matthew, on the “mountain” the Lord proclaimed the law of the kingdom of heaven, showed the glory of the kingdom in advance, foretold the reality of the kingdom (See Matt. 5:1, 17:1, 24:3). Today, He also declared “the great mission” towards citizens of the kingdom of heaven after He was risen on the “mountain”. Spiritual Meaning: “eleven disciples” represent all Christians; “mountain” symbolizes the excellent and heavenly realm. Enlightenment in the Word: If we want to see and experience the risen Christ personally, we have to believe in His words and pay price and make great effort to reach higher and heavenly realm (“the mountain”).

Matt. 28:17 “When they saw Him, they worshiped Him; but some doubted.” YLT: “and having seen him, they bowed to him, but some did waver.” Meaning of Words: “doubted”: duplicate, waver, question. Literal Meaning: though they saw Jesus with eyes, some still doubted, showing that the body of Jesus after resurrection is different from the flesh when He was alive. When Mary Magdalene saw Jesus face to face, she did not know that He is Jesus (See John. 20:14). Enlightenment in the Word: 1) Wherefore henceforth we should not know men after the flesh (See 2Cor. 5:16) and we should never know Christ who has been risen from the dead according to the flesh. 2) We should pray to the Lord for the spiritual eyes------faith (See John. 20:29; 2Cor. 5:7; 1Pet. 1:8), that we may have the full knowledge of Him (See Eph. 1:17-18).

Matt. 28:18 “And Jesus came and spoke to them, saying, ‘All authority has been given to Me in heaven and on earth.” YLT: “And having come near, Jesus spake to them, saying, `Given to me was all authority in heaven and on earth;” Literal Meaning: the Lord Jesus, as “the Son of God”, already has the authority over all (See Heb. 1:3), however, as “the Son of Man”, He received “the authority in heaven and on earth” after He was risen from the dead. Enlightenment in the Word: 1) Authority that men have today is temporary and limited and only the authority that is received in resurrection lasts forever and it is unlimited. Moreover, the authority in resurrection overcomes all authorities (See Num. 17:1- 11; the rods of leaders of twelve tribes of Israel typified authority. Only the rod of Aaron was budded, typifying that He reigns in resurrection and therefore this authority overcomes all other authorities). 2) Authority is in the Lord; whenever men depart from the Lord, they lose the authority. 3) If believers are dead with Him, they will not only live with Him but also reign together in the life of resurrection (See 2Tim. 2:11-12) 4) Christ not only receives the authority “in heaven”, but also receives the authority “on earth and under the earth”. Therefore none of difficulties is too difficult for Him to solve.

Matt. 28:19 “Go therefore and make disciples of all the nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit,” YLT: “having gone, then, disciple all the nations, (baptizing them to the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Spirit,” Literal Meaning: “therefore” shows that the following instruction of the Lord Jesus is according to the authority that He had received in v.18. “Make disciples of all the nations” “Make disciples” means that not only to make men receive glad tidings and believe in Christ but also to train and teach them, that their reality (including life and knowledge) will be worthy of their identity. “Baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit” “The Father and the Son and the Holy Spirit” are three persons, however, there is only one name. This sentence includes the truth of Trinity. “Baptizing them” It is to immerse them in water in the original. Spiritual Meaning: “baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit” The meaning of the baptism of Christians is different from “the baptism of John”. The baptism of John only leads men to repent (See Acts. 19:3-4), however, the baptism of Christians not only symbolizes that the original life of corruption of men is buried in water, but also positively means to baptize in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit. Name represents one’s reality and the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit represents the reality of the Holy Trinity. Therefore “in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit” means to bring men into the mysteriously spiritual union of the Holy Trinity------buried with Him in baptism, wherein also you are risen with Him (Col. 2:12) and you receive Christ’s life of resurrection. This life is the reality of the Holy Trinity and therefore believers have the mysterious union with the Holy Trinity in the life of resurrection. Enlightenment in the Word: 1) “Go therefore.” The Lord instructed His disciples to “go” by the authority that He had received (See v.18), this shows that anyone who is instructed to go is also with His authority. 2) When preaching, we should not only lead others believe in the Lord, but also take care and feed them after they have believed in the Lord, that they will become the Lord’s “disciples”. 3) Baptism should not be formalized and we should bring men to Christ and make them have relationship of life with the Holy Spirit.

Matt. 28:20 “teaching them to observe all things that I have commanded you; and lo, I am with you always, even to the end of the age.’ Amen.” YLT: “teaching them to observe all, whatever I did command you,) and lo, I am with you all the days till the full end of the age.’” Literal Meaning: “all things that I have commanded you” indicate all words that the Lord had taught the disciples, especially the mission that had been instructed to them at that moment. Concerning believers of later ages, it indicates all the words of the Holy Bible. “Teaching them to observe all things” “All” shows that our teachings should not be unilateral or extreme and should be comprehensive and balanced; “observe” shows that what’s essential is not the objective knowledge of truth but the subjective fulfillment of experience (See Matt. 7:24-25). “ And lo, I am with you always.” “And” is the promise with requirement, showing that the prerequisite for us to have the Lord’s presence depends on whether we observe the previous three missions: a) make disciples of all the nations; b) baptize them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit; c) teach men to observe the words of the words. This sentence also implies that the Lord’s presence is the important fact to fulfill the mission that has been instructed to us by the Lord. “Even to the end of the age” “the end” in the original means “the completion” “the completion of the age”, i.e. even to the time when the Lord comes. From this we could know that the Lord’s final instruction to His disciples is also the final one to all believers. Enlightenment in the Word: 1) The church should not only stress on the preaching of glad tidings and the church should teach believers to observe the Lord’s instruction. 2) The beginning of the church depends on that they continued stedfastly in the Apostles’ teaching (Acts. 2:42); the continuation and end of the church depends on teaching and admonishing one another (Col. 3:16). 3) The Lord is Emmanuel------God with us (See Matt. 1:23). While He was on earth, He was with His disciples in the flesh and today He is with believers in the Holy Spirit. 4) The Lord instructed us the mission with the “authority in heaven and on earth”; the Lord is also with us with the “authority in heaven and on earth”. Only when the Lord is with us will we be able to receive heavenly authority and only when the Lord is with us can we fulfill the mission that He had instructed to us.

The Nature and Power of Resurrection I. “The first day of the weak” (v.1)------the old creation was ended and the new creation was brought in. II. “Began to dawn” (v.1)------heavenly light was brought in. III. “There was a great earthquake” (v.2)------the earthly power was shaken. IV. “An angel of the Lord descended from heaven” (v.2)------heavenly help was brought in. V. “Rolled back the stone” (v.2)------the things that would block the manifestation of life were removed. VI. “The guards shook for fear of him” (v.4)------He defeated the forces of darkness. VII. “The angel said to the women, ‘do not be afraid’” (v.4)------heavenly comfort was brought in. VIII. “He is not here” (v.6)------He is the one who cannot be held by death. IX. “With great joy” (v.8)------heavenly joy was brought in. X. “Behold, Jesus met them” (v.9)------they received the Lord’s appearing. XI. “Rejoicing” (v.9)------they received Christ’s peace. XII. “They came and held Him by the feet and worshiped Him” (v.9)------the true worship was brought in.

The Authenticity of Resurrection I. Resurrection was declared and spread (v.2-7). II. Resurrection was seen by those who loved the Lord (v.8-10). III. Resurrection was reported by enemies (v.11). IV. Resurrection was experienced and confirmed by believers (v.16-17).

The Foundation, Duty and Promise of the Great Mission I. The foundation of the great mission------“the authority in heaven and on earth” (v.18). II. Three duties of the great mission: A. “Go therefore and make disciples of all the nations” (v.19a)------go to be witnesses of the Lord all over the world (See Acts. 1:8) and make men believe on Jesus Christ. B. “Baptize them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit” (v.19b)------make men have union of life with the Holy Trinity through death and resurrection with the Lord (See Rom. 6:3-8). C. “Teach them to observe all things that I have commanded you.” (v.20)------make men receive edification in the words of the Lord and grow up to be sons and daughters who are acceptable to God. III. The promise of the great mission------“and lo, I am with you always, even to the end of the age” (v.20b).

General Outlines of the Spiritual Lessons of the Book

The Name of the Lord Jesus in the Book 1. The Son of Abraham (1:1)------He inherits the promise. 2. The Son of David (1:1, 12:23)------He is the king of kingdom. 3. Jesus Christ (1:1)------He humbled Himself first and then was exalted. 4. Christ (1:16)------He is anointed by the Holy Spirit. 5. Jesus (1:21)------He is God who came to be men’s savior (or salvation). 6. Immanuel (1:23)------God with us. 7. King of the Jews (2:2; 27:29, 37)------He is king of God’s people. 8. God’s beloved Son (3:17; 17:5)------in Him God is well pleased. 9. The Son of God (4:3, 6; 8:29; 27:54)------He is the manifestation of God. 10. A great light (4:16)------He is the brightness of God’s glory (Heb. 1:3). 11. Lord (8:2, 25)------He is the lord of all. 12. A physician (9:12)------He is the physician of men’s spirit, soul and body. 13. The bridegroom (9:15; 25:1)------He is the everlastingly fresh dependence and joy. 14. The Son of Man (11:19; 12:8, 40)------He is the word that became flesh. 15. God’s servant (12:18)------He served God on earth. 16. The greater than Jonah (12:41)------He raised from the dead. 17. The greater than Solomon (12:42)------He is the word of wisdom. 18. The son of the living God (16:16)------He is the manifestation of the living God. 19. The rock (16:18)------He is the foundation to build the church. 20. King (18:23)------He is the supervisor of all. 21. A landowner (20:1, 11; 24:45; 25:19)------He is the owner of the house of God. 22. The owner of the vineyard (20:8)------He is the manager of God’s work. 23. The son of the owner of the vineyard (21:37-38)------He is sent by God to the earth. 24. The stone which the builders rejected (21:42)------He was rejected by leaders of the Jews. 25. The chief cornerstone (21:42)------He is the foundation to build the church. 26. The stone on which whoever falls on will be broken (21:44)------He made the hypocritical religious believers be stumbled. 27. The son of a king (22:2)------He is the center of the marriage. 28. Rabbi, teacher (23:8, 10)------He is teacher of God’s people. 29. The lamb of the Passover (26:17-29)------He is the redeemer for men’s sins. 30. The shepherd (26:31)------He is the shepherd of God’s flock of sheep.

Women in the Book 1. Four women of low birth were listed in the genealogy of Christ (1:3-6)------they typify that Gentile believers were sinners under the hand of devil before they were saved. 2. Mary the virgin was found with child of the Holy Spirit and brought forth Jesus (1:18, 23)------a virgin symbolizes that men have minds of simplicity in Christ (2Cor. 11:2-3). 3. Peter’s mother-in-law was sick with a fever and was healed by the Lord (8:14-15)------she typifies that believers used to be zealous in the traditions of the elders and then were saved by the Lord. 4. The woman who had a flow of blood for twelve years and the daughter of a ruler was healed by the Lord (9:18-25)------they respectively typify that the life of both the Gentile and Jewish believers was leaking (they were dead) before they are saved. 5. The queen of the South who came to hear the wisdom of Solomon (12:42)------she typifies that the Gentiles were drew by the Lord and sought the word of the Lord. 6. A woman who took leaven and hid it in three measures of meal (13:33)------she typifies the backsliding church privily brought in damnable heresies. 7. Herodias and her daughter who killed John the Baptist (14:1-11)------they typify those who are utilized by the devil to withstand the gospel of the kingdom of heaven. 8. A woman of Canaan with great faith (15:21-28)------she typifies Gentile believers who live by faith. 9. Two women will be grinding at the mill: one will be taken and the other left. (24:41)------they typify that believers who are alive when the Lord comes and some of them will be taken and some of them will be left. 10. Five wise and five foolish virgins (25:1-13)------they typify believers who had fallen asleep before the Lord comes and some of them overcome and some of them fail. 11. A woman who poured the precious ointment on the Lord (26:6-13)------she typifies believer who seizes the opportunity to love the Lord. 12. The two maids who persecuted Peter to deny the Lord (26:69-72)------they typify small tests that believers encounter in their environment. 13. Pilate’s wife (27:19)------she typifies the consciousness of the world. 14. Several women who beheld the Lord under the cross (27:55-56, 61)------they typify witnesses who follow the Lord until the place of death. 15. Two “Mary”s who firstly saw the Lord’s resurrection (28:1-10)------they typify believers who love the Lord so much that they can bear witness of the Lord’s resurrection.

Seeing the Fundamental Experience of the Kingdom of Heaven from the example of the Lord Jesus 1. Mary was found with child of the Holy Spirit (1:18)------one must have God’s life. 2. He was baptized in Jordan (3:13)------one must bury his natural life. 3. The heavens were opened (3:16)------one must have spiritual light. 4. The spirit of God descended (3:16)------one upon whom the Holy Spirit has been poured out. 5. He overcame the temptations of Satan (4:1-11)------one must overcome in spiritual conflict. 6. He preached the word of the kingdom of heaven (4:17-25)------one must draw men to return to God.

Common Principles for Christians to Deal with Men 1. Be unwilling to make the other a public example (1:19). 2. One ought to listen to God instead of men (2:12; See Acts. 4:19). 3. Fulfill all righteousness among men (3:15). 4. Be merciful (5:7; 9:36-37). 5. Be a peacemaker (5:9). 6. Do not reproach or be angry with others (5:22). 7. Be reconciled to the other (5:24). 8. Do not lust after the other with the opposite sex (5:28). 9. Do not resist evil (5:39). 10. Love your enemies and pray for them who despitefully use you or persecute you (5:44). 11. Forgive others with their debts and trespasses (6:12, 14-15). 12. Do not judge (7:1). 13. Whatever one wants men to do to you, do also to them (7:12). 14. Draw to the afflicted (9:11-13). 15. Do not love your parents more than the Lord (10:37). 16. Receive men (10:37). 17. Encourage the weak (11:4-5). 18. Praise others at their back (11:7-11). 19. Save men when they are in danger and should not obstinately cling to regulations (12:10-12). 20. Do not attempt to remove false believers in the world (13:28-29). 21. Do not despise the prophets who are in his own country and in his own house (13:57). 22. Provide spiritual bread to others (14:6). 23. Do not abandon your duty as a man with spiritual excuse (15:5-6). 24. Give up those who do not listen to others’ advise (15:12-14). 25. Do not defend others (17:27). 26. Do not offend others (18:6-10). 27. Try your best to restore the one who sins against you (18:15-17). 28. Forgive others their trespasses from your heart (18:21-35). 29. Keep moral commandments (19:18-19). 30. Give to the poor (19:21). 31. Do not envy (evil eyes) others (20:15). 32. Do not strive to be the great, but serve others (20:20-28). 33. Do not care about anyone or regard the person of men (22:16). 34. Love your neighbor as yourself (22:39). 35. Do not take advantage of the weak (23:14). 36. Do not beat your fellow-servants------humiliate brothers and sisters (24:48- 51). 37. Concern those who are in need (25:31-46). 38. Do not use weapons of the flesh (26:52).

Knowing Angels 1. Work: a. Lead God’s sons and daughters (1:20; 2:13, 19). b. Execute judgment (13:39-41; 25:31). c. Separate the righteous and the wicked (13:49). d. Preserve God’s sons and daughters (18:11). e. Gather God’s elect when the Lord comes (24:30-31). f. Bear witness of the Lord’s resurrection (28:2-7). 2. Nature: a. They neither marry nor are given in marriage (22:30). b. Do not know everything (24:36). c. Holy (25:31). 3. Countenance------like lightening (28:3).

Knowing Sin 1. Christ came into the world to save His people from their sins (1:21). 2. Sinners need to repent and confess their sins (3:6). 3. Sin makes men be lame and unable to walk (9:2). 4. Only the Lord has the power to forgive sins (9:6). 5. Every sin (but the blasphemy against the Spirit) will be forgiven men (12:31). 6. Only through the precious blood will sins be remitted (26:28).

Knowing Salvation 1. Only the Lord is able to save men (1:21). 2. “Being saved” indicates to be saved from sins (1:21). 3. “Being saved” also indicates to be saved from environment (8:25; See 2Cor. 1:10). 4. Faith is the requirement fore men to be saved (9:22). 5. He that endures to the end shall be saved (10:22, 24:13). 6. Call upon the Lord to save you in dangerous environment (14:30). 7. Whoever loses his life for the Lord’s sake will find it (16:25). 8. The Son of Man has come to save that which was lost (18:11). 9. With men this is impossible, but with God all things are possible. (19:25-26). 10. God concerned that whether we are saved in tribulations (24:22). 11. The Lord cannot save Himself in order to save us and died on the cross (27:42-43).

Knowing Worship 1. The example of the wise men from the east: a. They came from afar to worship especially (2:2). b. They saw first and then worshipped (2:11)------they must have seen in spirit. c. They worshiped the little child (the Lord Jesus) instead of Mary (2:11). d. They fell down (2:11)------this shows their submission. e. They presented unto Him gifts (2:11)------dedication must accompany with the true worship. 2. The reversed worship: a. Herod said insincerely that he would come to worship Him (2:8). b. They honor the Lord with their lips, but their heart is far from the Lord. (15:9). 3. Satan wants to usurp our worship towards God (4:9). 4. We should worship the Lord our God (4:10). 5. Worship because your have something to call upon the Lord (8:2; 9:18; 15:25; 20:20). 6. Worship because you have seen the Lord’s works (14:33). 7. Worship because your have seen the Lord’s appearance (28:9, 17).

Knowing Religious Believers 1. Though they have knowledge of the Bible, they are unwilling to seek the Lord (2:4-6). 2. Though they are baptized, they have not bore fruits meet for repentance (3:7-10). 3. Offspring of vipers (3:7; 12:34; 23:33). 4. Though they keep the righteousness of commandments and letters, they do not keep the spirit of the Law (5:19-20). 5. They are hypocritical and they purposely do their alms, prayers, fasting and other good works before men (6:1-8, 16-18). 6. They come in sheep’s clothing, but inwardly they are ravenous wolves (7:15). 7. They are the corrupt tree that cannot bear good fruits (7:16-20; 12:33). 8. They say “the Lord” with their lips, but they do not keep the will of God the Father (7:21). 9. They have prophesied, cast out demons and done many wonders in the name of the Lord, but they are not praised by the Lord (7:22-23). 10. Ignorant ones who hear the sayings of the Lord but do not do them (7:26- 27). 11. They are originally the sons of the kingdom of Israel, but they do not have faith (8:10-12). 12. They say that they would follow the Lord, but are unwilling to bear hardship and hard work (8:19-20). 13. They think themselves righteous but do not sympathize others (9:10-13). 14. They put a piece of unshrunk cloth on an old garment and put new wine into old wineskins (9:16-17). 15. They are wolves that persecute true believers (10:16-17, 21-22). 16. They deny the Lord before men (10:33). 17. They think themselves wise and prudent (11:25). 18. They keep the regulations of the Sabbath but do not honor the Lord of the Sabbath (12:1-8). 19. They secretly discussed to destroy Jesus (12:14). 20. They blaspheme the Lord and say that He cast out demons by Beelzebub the prince of devils (12:22-27). 21. They are not with the Lord and do not gather with the Lord (12:30). 22. They stress on the outward signs and neglect the true reality of signs (12:38-42). 23. They are empty and swept but do not have life of God and therefore they are forcibly occupied by evil devils (12:43-45). 24. Their hearts have grown dull, their ears are hard of hearing and their eyes have closed (13:13-15). 25. They are way side, stony places where there is not much earth and thorns (13:1-7, 19-22). 26. They are tares (13:25-30, 38-42). 27. They are the tree in whose branches the birds of the air come and lodge (13:32). 28. They are three measures of meal that would make the whole be leavened (13:33). 29. They are aquatic animals that are cast away (13:48-50). 30. They transgress God’s commandments by the traditions of the elders (15:1-6). 31. They honor God with their lips but their heart is far from the Lord (15:7-8). 32. They teach as doctrines the commandments of men (15:9). 33. They are not planted by the Father in heaven (15:13). 34. They are blind leaders of the blind. If the blind leads the blind, both will fall into a ditch (15:14). 35. They know how to discern the face of the sky, but they cannot discern the signs of the times (16:1-4). 36. The leaven of the Pharisees and the Sadducees------there is toxin in their teachings (16:5-12). 37. They make God’s temple the den of thieves (21:12-13). 38. Fig tree does not have fruits but leaves (21:19). 39. They dare not admit the heavenly power of John the Baptist (21:25-27). 40. The second son who agreed his father to work in his vineyard first and then did not go (21:29). 41. The wicked husbandmen who did not render fruits and killed servants and the son of the lord of the vineyard (21:33-41). 42. Whoever falls on this stone (Jesus) (21:44-45). 43. The guest who attended the marriage that was arranged by the king for his son and did not have on a wedding garment (22:11-13). 44. They united with worldly politicians to reject the Lord (22:15-17). 45. They did not know the Scripture or the power of God (22:29). 46. They did not know the prophecies in the Bible concerning Christ (22:41- 46). 47. They say and do not do (23:1-4). 48. They do all their works to be seen by men (23:5). 49. They exalt themselves and like vain glory (23:6-12). 50. They neither go in the kingdom of heaven themselves, nor do they allow those who are entering to go in (23:13). 51. They devour widows’ house, and for a pretense make long prayers (23:14). 52. They win one proselyte, and when he is won, they make him a son of hell (23:15). 53. They are blind guiders and they do not know which is greater (23:16-22). 54. They carry out details of the Law and do not do things that they ought to do (23:23-24). 55. They cleanse the outside of the cup and dish, but inside they are full of extortion and self-indulgence (23:25-26). 56. They are like whitewashed tombs which indeed appear beautiful outwardly, but inside are full of dead men's bones and all uncleanness. (23:27-28). 57. They honor prophets who had been killed before and kill prophets of this time (23:29-36). 58. They come in the Lord’s name (false Christ) and deceive many (24:5, 23- 26). 59. The false prophets deceived many (24:11, 24). 60. They sought opportunity to betray the Lord for money (26:14-16). 61. They bore false witness to accuse Jesus (26:59-61). 62. They delivered Jesus to men for crucifixion (27:1-2, 11-26). 63. They mocked Jesus (27:41-43). 64. They made up lie to cover the fact of the resurrection of Jesus (28:11-15).

Knowing the World 1. Egypt (2:15, 19)------it typifies the world. 2. The glory of the world shall attract men’s hearts (4:8). 3. Because of its nature of corruption and darkness, believers should be salt and light (5:13-16). 4. Things of it will corrupt and they won’t last forever (6:19-20). 5. It is the field in which all men live (including believers------the good seed) (13:38). 6. It is unworthy for men to suffer the loss of their souls for the world (16:26). 7. It would offend believers (18:7). 8. There will be the Great Tribulation (24:21). 9. When God created the world, He has prepared another everlasting world------the kingdom prepared from the foundation of the world (25:34).

The Example and Principle of the Lord’s Workers 1. The example of John the Baptist: a. He spoke for the Lord and “said” for the Lord (3:3). b. He had the burden of special message (3:3). c. He looked upon God’s provision in life (3:4). d. He pointed out men’s states (3:7-10). e. He led men to Christ (3:11-12). 2. The example of the Lord when He was tempted: a. He overcame the difficulties of life (4:2-4). b. He overcame the temptation of religious status (standing on the pinnacle of the temple) (4:5-7). c. He overcame the glory of the world (4:8-10). 3. The example of the Lord when He started to preach: a. He sprung up as a great light (4:15-16). b. He attracted others as magnet (4:18-22). c. He was full of the spiritual power (4:23-25). 4. Serve God and do not serve mammon (6:24). 5. Hear the words and do them (7:24-25). 6. Equip oneself with the Lord’s words: a. Keep the way of workers (10:5-8). b. Hold the propriety of workers (10:9-15). c. Be wise as serpents and harmless as doves (10:16-20). d. Endure to the end though he is hated by all (10:21-23). e. Do not fear though one is put to place of death (10:24-33). f. Do not love parents or children more than the Lord (10:34-38). g. Take up his own cross and follow the Lord (10:38-39; 16:24). 7. Have rest in difficulties because of the good pleasure of God (11:25-30). 8. Cast out devils by the spirit of God (12:28). 9. Do the will of God the Father (12:50). 10. Be instructed unto the kingdom of heaven and be familiar with the Old and New Testament (13:52). 11. Be channels of blessing of the Lord (14:18-19; 15:36). 12. Take heed and beware of heretical teachings (16:6-12). 13. Have heavenly revelations (16:17). 14. Have heavenly power (16:18-19). 15. When they had lifted up their eyes, they saw no one but Jesus only (17:8). 16. Humble oneself as a little child (18:4). 17. Receive believers (18:5). 18. Do not offend believers (18:6-9). 19. Do not despise believers (18:10). 20. Seek the believer who is straying (18:12-14). 21. Gain the believer who has made a mistake (18:15-20). 22. Forgive the believer who has owed others (18:21-35). 23. Be first and do not fall behind (19:30; 20:16). 24. Do not have evil eyes towards fellow-workers (20:10-15). 25. Do not strive for status and be willing to be ministers and servants of all (20:20-28). 26. Do not hold others from drawing near to the Lord (20:30-34). 27. Obey the Lord’s sending and be willing to devote everything to exalt Christ (21:2-9). 28. Have made ruler over the Lord’s household and give them food in due season (24:45-47). 29. Use gifts and try one’s best to trade with the gifts (25:14-23). 30. Watch and pray with the Lord (26:38-41). 31. Observe the Lord’s instruction and fulfill the great mission that He had instructed (28:18-20). The Comparisons in the Book of Matthew 1. Wheat and chaff (3:12). 2. God and mammon (6:24). 3. Narrow gate and straitened way and the broad gate and broad way (7:13- 14). 4. Sheep and ravening wolves (7:15). 5. A good tree and a bad tree (7:16-20). 6. Those who do the will of the Father in heaven and those who practice lawlessness (7:21-23). 7. The one who built his house on the rock and the one who built his house on the sand (7:24-27). 8. The Lord refused the scribe to follow Him and hindered the disciple from going home (8:19-22). 9. A piece of unshrunk cloth and an old garment (9:16). 10. New wine and old wineskins (9:17). 11. John came neither drinking nor eating and the Son of Man came drinking and eating (11:18-19). 12. God the Father has hidden things from the wise and prudent and has revealed them to babes (11:25). 13. Wheat and tares (13:24-30, 36-43). 14. They gathered the good into vessels, but threw the bad away (13:47-50). 15. Traditions of the elders and commandments of God (15:1-9). 16. What goes into the mouth and what comes out of the mouth (15:11-20). 17. Peter (a piece of rock) and this rock (16:18). 18. The things of God and the things of men (16:23). 19. Whoever desires to save his life will lose it and whoever loses his life will find it (16:25). 20. The servant owned the Lord ten thousand talents and he would not have patience with his fellowservant who owned him a hundred pence (18:23-35). 21. Who are first will be last, and the last first. (19:30; 20:16). 22. Rulers of the nations and servants of the church (20:25-28). 23. The first and the second son (21:28-32). 24. Husbandmen who did not render fruits and those who rendered fruits (21:33-45). 25. The things that are Caesar’s and the things that are God’s (22:21). 26. They strain out a gnat and swallow a camel (23:24). 27. They cleanse the outside of the cup and dish, but inside they are full of extortion and self-indulgence (23:25). 28. They are like whitewashed tombs which indeed appear beautiful outwardly, but inside are full of dead men's bones and all uncleanness. (23:27). 29. One will be taken and the other left (24: 40-41). 30. The faithful and wise servant and the evil servant (24:45-51). 31. Five wise virgins and five foolish virgins (25:1-13). 32. The good and faithful servant and the wicked and lazy servant (25:14-30). 33. Sheep and goats (25:31-46). 34. The woman who spent the precious ointment to pour it on Jesus and Judas who betrayed the Lord for thirty pieces of silver (26:6-16). 35. Not as I will, but as You will. (26:39). 36. The spirit indeed is willing, but the flesh is weak (26:41). 37. They released Barabbas but destroyed Jesus (27:16-26). 38. He saved others but Himself He cannot save (27:42). 39. Soldiers who guarded the tomb and women who came to the tomb to see Jesus (27:62-28:8).

Conditions to Enter the Kingdom of Heaven 1. Repent (3:2; 4:17). 2. Be modesty------poor in spirit (5:3). 3. Be persecuted for righteousness’ sake (5:10). 4. Their righteousness should exceed the righteousness of the Pharisees and the scribes (5:20). 5. Seek first the kingdom of God and His righteousness (6:33). 6. Do the will of the Father in heaven (7:21). 7. The violent (11:12). 8. Cast out devils by the spirit of God (12:28). 9. Be instructed unto the kingdom of heaven (13:52). 10. Be converted and become as little children (18:3). 11. Humble oneself as this little child (18:4; 19:14). 12. Make themselves eunuchs for the kingdom of heaven’s sake (19:12). 13. Overcome the seizing of money (19:23-24). 14. Be able to bring forth fruits (21:43). 15. Give those in the household meat in due season (24:45-47). 16. Take oil in their vessels with their lamps (25:4, 10). 17. Be faithful over a few things (25:20-23). 18. Observe the Lord’s commandments (28:19-20).

Knowing Repentance 1. One must repent for the sake of the kingdom of heaven (3:2; 4:17). 2. Repentance means to turn one’s mind to God (3:2). 3. Bring forth fruits meet for repentance (3:8, 10). 4. Repent because one has seen God’s works (11:21). 5. Repent because one has heard the word of God (12:41). 6. Repentance does not mean to regret for one’s behaviors (27:3).

Knowing Judgment 1. The Lord will baptize with fire in future (3:11-12). 2. If one does not be reconciled to brothers today, he will be punished in future (5:22-26). 3. The one who commits adultery shall be cast into hell (5:27-30). 4. If you do not forgive men their trespasses, neither will your Father forgive your trespasses (6:14-15). 5. The one who does not obey the will of Father in heaven today shall not be admitted by the Lord that day (7:21-23). 6. Those that do not have faith shall be cast out into outer darkness (8:12). 7. The one that confesses the Lord before men shall be confessed by the Lord before Father in heaven and the one that denies the Lord before men shall be denied by the Lord before Father in heaven (10:32-33). 8. Whether it is tolerable for someone at the day of judgment depends on his reaction towards the glad tidings today (11:20-24). 9. The blasphemy against the Spirit will not be forgiven men and whoever speaks against the Holy Spirit, it will not be forgiven him (12:31-32). 10. Every idle word men may speak, they will give account of it in the day of judgment. For by your words you will be justified, and by your words you will be condemned (12:36-37). 11. The men of Nineveh and the queen of the south will rise up in the judgment with this generation and condemn it (12:41-42). 12. At the end of this age, angels of the Lord will pick out all false believers and cast them into fire (13:24-30, 37-43). 13. At the end of this age, the Lord’s angels will throw the wicked away and cast them into the furnace of fire (13:47-50). 14. When the Lord comes, He will reward each according to his work (16:27). 15. Those who offend brothers shall be judged (18:7-10). 16. Those who do not forgive his brother shall be punished by the Father in heaven (18:23-35). 17. The twelve disciples who had left all and followed the Lord shall sit on the throne with the Lord in future (19:27-28). 18. The guest who did not have on a wedding garment shall be cast into outer darkness (22:11-13). 19. The faithful and wise servant shall be rewarded and the evil servant shall be punished (24:45-51). 20. The wise virgins shall go in with Him to the wedding and the foolish virgins shall be shut out of the door (25:1-13). 21. The good and faithful servants shall be rewarded and the wicked and lazy servants shall be cast into outer darkness (25:14-30). 22. When the Lord comes, the righteous who dealt kindly with one of the least of the Lord’s brothers shall go into life eternal and the wicked who did not deal kindly with one of the Lord’s brothers shall go into the everlasting fire (25:31-46).

Christians’ Knowledge and Attitude of Life 1. Man shall not live by bread alone, but by every word that proceeds from the mouth of God. (4:4). 2. When one has been called by the Lord, he should leave all his dependence of life (4:18-22). 3. We should have good testimony in our own houses (5:15-16). 4. We should know that God gives us our daily bread and we should trust Him (6:11). 5. We should pray the Lord not to lead us into temptation------difficulties of life (6:13). 6. Do not worry about what we will eat, what we will drink, what we will put on and these necessary things (6:25-32). 7. Seek first the kingdom of God and His righteousness, and all these things shall be added to us (6:33). 8. Do not worry about tomorrow (6:34). 9. We should never reject the Lord for loss of money (a herd of swine) (8:30- 34). 10. A worker is worthy of his food (10:10). 11. What profit is it to a man if he gains the whole world, and loses his own soul (16:26)? 12. If one is not given the gift, he still needs to get married (19:10-11). 13. Custom to whom custom (22:21; See Rom. 13:7).

Being of Christians 1. Fishers of men (4:19)------preach the gospel to gain men for the Lord. 2. The Lord’s disciples (5:1)------follow the Lord and be trained by the Lord. 3. The salt of the earth (5:13)------guard against the corruption of the world. 4. The light of the world (5:14-16)------bear glorious witness to God before men. 5. Brothers (5:22-24)------be God’s daughters and sons. 6. Children of the Father in heaven (5:45)------have life and disposition of God the Father. 7. Sheep (7:15; 9:36; 10:16; 18:12-14)------be shepherded by God and have docile disposition. 8. A good tree (7:17)------be able to bear good fruits. 9. The harvest (9:37)------satisfy God. 10. Laborers (9:38; 20:2)------work for God. 11. Apostles (10:2)------men who are sent by the Lord. 12. Disciples (10:24-25)------be taught by the Lord. 13. Servants (10:24-25; 18:23; 25:14-30)------serve the Lord. 14. Good seed (13:24, 38)------they are sowed by the Lord. 15. Children of the kingdom (13:38)------inherit the heavenly kingdom. 16. The righteous (13:43)------they are called righteous by God. 17. Dog (15:27)------companion of the master in the house of God. 18. Little ones who believe in the Lord (18:6)------trust the Lord simply. 19. The first son (21:28-29)------he firstly contradicted God and then repented. 20. A nation that brings forth fruits (21:43)------have fruits of life. 21. The goodman of the house (24:42-43)------manage himself. 22. Housekeeper (24:45-51)------manage the church of God. 23. Virgins (25:1-13)------have minds of simplicity towards the Lord (See 2Cor. 11:2-3). 24. The Lord’s brothers (28:10)------the Lord raised from the dead and this brings in many sons of God (See Heb. 2:10-12).

Knowing God’s Reward 1. It is in heaven and great (5:12). 2. One would have reward if he does not merely love those who love him (5:46). 3. Charitable deeds, prayers, fasting and other good things should be done in secret (6:1-8, 16-18). 4. Give one of these little ones only a cup of cold water in the name of a disciple (10:42). 5. The one who comes and works in the vineyard (the church) shall have his wage (reward) (20:8).

Seven Kinds of Manifestation of Spiritual Life 1. Being absolutely holy and righteous (5:20-37). 2. Being exceeding and overcoming (5:39-48). 3. Leaving all the profits of “self” (6:1-4). 4. Seeking the will of God whole-heartedly (6:5-18). 5. Being single-minded and pure towards the Lord (6:22-24). 6. Being faithful to the holy instruction of God and obligation (6:25-34). 7. Having spiritual experience and tolerance (7:1-27).

Christians’ Reactions When being Dealt with by Others 1. If someone has something against you, you have to deal with it completely (5:23-26). 2. Give to him who asks you, and from him who wants to borrow from you do not turn away (5:39-42). 3. Pray for those who spitefully use you and persecute you (5:44). 4. Do not speak by yourselves when being persecuted (10:19-20). 5. Endure to the end when being hated by men (10:22). 6. Flee when being persecuted (10:23). 7. Do not fear those who kill the body but cannot kill the soul (10:28). 8. Try your best to gain him who has sinned against you (18:15-17). 9. Be specially carful when being praised by men (22:16-18).

Christians’ words 1. Let your “Yes” be “Yes,” and your “No,” ‘No.” (5:37). 2. Do not judge, least you may be judged (7:1-5). 3. Be as good as one’s words (7:21; 23:3). 4. Look upon the Holy Spirit to give one what he should say (10:19-20). 5. Speak in light what the Lord has instructed (10:27). 6. Confess the Lord before men (10:32-33). 7. Never speak against the Holy Spirit (12:31-32). 8. Deal with the intention first and then the words of mouth (12:34-35). 9. Do not speak idle words, least you may be judged by God (12:36-37). 10. Take heed of what comes out of the mouth because what comes out of the mouth may defile a man (15:11; 18-19). 11. Every word should be established (18:16). 12. Praise (21:16). 13. Do not boast (26:33-35). 14. Do not defend for oneself (26:63; 27:14). 15. Preach the words of the Lord (28:20).

Knowing Prayer 1. Three “not”s in praying (6:5-8). a. When praying, we should “not” purposely let others see. b. We should “not’ use vain repetitions as the heathen do. c. We should “not” imitate others’ prayers. 2. The example of prayer (6:9-13): a. Pray first for the name of God, kingdom and will. b. Pray second for one’s life and difficulties. c. Glorify God. 3. Seek first the kingdom of God and His righteousness (6:33). 4. Believe that everyone who asks receives, and he who seeks finds, and to him who knocks it will be opened. (7:7-8). 5. Believe that God gives good things to those who ask Him (7:9-11). 6. Ask in faith (8:5-10; 9:22, 29; 15:28). 7. The Lord answers others’ intercession with faith (9:2). 8. Pray the Lord of the harvest to send out laborers into His harvest (9:37-38). 9. The words of prayer should be appropriate (15:22-28). 10. Prayer and fasting is needed sometimes (17:21). 11. When two or more pray together, two should agree concerning anything that they ask (18:19). 12. Know what we ask (20:22). 13. We should pray not as we will, but as God wills (26:39). 14. Always watch and pray (26:41).

Knowing Money 1. Do not lay up for yourselves treasures on earth, but lay up for yourselves treasures in heaven (6:19-20; 19:21). 2. Where your treasure is, there your heart will be also (6:21). 3. Do not serve God and mammon (6:24). 4. Money will hold men from entering the kingdom of heaven (19:23-24). 5. Do not haggle over how much others have received (20:10-15). 6. Render to Caesar the things that are Caesar's, and to God the things that are God's (22:21). 7. Do not devour widow’s houses (23:14). 8. One ought to have done the tithe (23:23). 9. Be willing to spend money on the Lord (26:6-13). 10. Do not betray the Lord for money (26:14-16). 11. Do not take the money of unrighteousness (27:6).

Ways for the Growth of Life 1. Enter the narrow gate and walk in the straitened way (7:13-14). 2. Put new wine into new wineskins (9:17). 3. Whoever loses his life for the Lord’s sake shall gain life (10:37-39; 16:24- 25). 4. Keep the Lord’s word with good ground (heart) and let it grow and yield a crop (13:8, 23). 5. Take oil in the vessels (25:4).

Several Kinds of Power 1. The power of the teaching of the Lord (7:28-29). 2. The power of the scribes (7:29; 23:2-3). 3. The power of the church (16:18-20). 4. The power of work (10:1).

The Special “Two”s in the Book 1. Two demon-possessed men (8:28). 2. Two blind men (9:27). 3. Two blind men (20:29-34).

Blind Men in the Book 1. Two blind men in chapter 9th (9:27-31): a. They knew their poor conditions of blindness. b. They asked the Lord to heal their eyes sincerely. c. They believed the Lord’s power of healing. d. They received the answer of prayer. e. Their eyes were opened and they did not obey the Lord’s instruction. 2. The blind men in chapter 12th (12:22): a. He was blind because he was possessed by demon. b. He was both blind and mute. c. He was brought to the Lord and then was healed. 3. Blind men in chapter 15th (15:14): a. The one who leads the way and the one who is led are both blind. b. They typify leaders in the circle of religion and their followers. c. They both fall into the ditch because they cannot see the way of God. 4. Two blind men in chapter 20th (20:29-34): a. They heard that Jesus was passing by and they asked the Lord for mercy. b. They were warned by men that they should be quiet but they cried out all the more. c. Their eyes received sight and they followed the Lord. 5. Blind men in chapter 23rd (23:16-19, 24, 26): a. They typify the religious leaders who do not discern which is greater. b. They stress on material things but neglect the spiritual things. c. They stress on details of letters but neglect the weightier matters of the Law. d. They stress on outward behaviors and neglect inner reality.

The Way to Build the Church 1. The Lord is the builder of the church and He is also the foundation of the church (16:18). 2. Value every little one in the church: a. Receive one little child like this (18:1-5). b. Do not offend one of these little ones (18:6-9). c. Do not despise one of these little ones (18:10). d. Do not let one of these little ones lose (18:11-14). e. Try your best to gain the brother who has sinned against you (18:15-17). 3. Two of you agree concerning anything that they ask (18:19). 4. Two or three are gathered in the Lord’s name (18:20). 5. From your heart forgive your brother his trespasses (18:21-35).

Settling Accountants 1. The king would settle accounts with His servants (18:23-35). 2. The householder would collect rents with his husbandmen (21:33-46). 3. The owner would settle accounts with his servants (25:14-30).

The Harmonistic Syllabus of the Gospels

Deeds I. The deeds that are particularly recorded in the Book of Matthew: 1. The genealogy of Jesus (through Joseph) (1:1-17). 2. The angel appeared to Joseph (1:18-25). 3. Jesus was born and wise men from the East came to worship Him (2:1- 12). 4. Herod massacred all male children and Joseph took Jesus and fled into Egypt (2:13-18). 5. He returned to the city which was called Nazareth from Egypt (2:19-23). 6. He called men to come to Him to have rest (11:28-30) 7. The words of Isaiah the prophet were fulfilled (12:16-21). 8. Judas hanged himself (27:3-10). 9. Soldiers were sent to guard the tomb (27:62-66). 10. The council bribed soldiers to make up the lie (28:11-15). 11. The Lord appeared to eleven disciples on the mountain of Galilee (28:16- 17). II. The harmonistic syllabuses of the Gospels: 1. Mary was found with child of the Holy Spirit (1:18; Luke. 1:26-38). 2. The work and witness of John the Baptist (3:1-12; Mark. 1:1-8; Luke. 3:1- 18; John. 1:6-8, 15). 3. Jesus was baptized (3:13-17; Mark. 1:9-11; Luke. 3:21-22). 4. He was tempted by the devil (4:1-11; Mark. 1:12-13; Luke. 4:1-13). 5. He returned to Galilee (4:12; Mark. 1:14; Luke. 4:14-15). 6. He stared to preach in Capernaum (4:13-17; Mark. 1:14-15; Luke. 4:31). 7. He called Peter and other three disciples (4:18-22; Mark. 1:16-20; Luke. 5:1-11). 8. He went throughout Galilee, preaching (4:23-25; Mark. 1:35-39; Luke. 4: 42-44). 9. The multitudes were astonished at Jesus’ doctrine (7:28-29; Mark. 1:21-22; Luke. 4:32). 10. The price to follow the Lord (8:18-22; Luke. 9:57-60). 11. He called Matthew and sat down with sinners (9:9-13; Mark. 2:13-17; Luke. 5:27-32). 12. Jesus went about all the cities and villages (9:35; Mark. 6:6). 13. He set twelve apostles (10:1-4; Mark. 6:7; Luke. 9:1-2). 14. The apostles went out to work (11:1; Mark. 6:12-13; Luke. 9:7-9). 15. He encouraged John the Baptist who was in prison (11:2-6; Luke. 7:18- 23). 16. He praised John the Baptist to others (11:7-19; Luke. 7:24-35). 17. He blamed the cities in which men did not repent (11:20-24; Luke. 10:12- 15). 18. He thanked God the Father when He was rejected by men (11:25-27; Luke. 10:21-22). 19. The disciples plucked the ears and ate them on the Sabbath (12:1-2; Mark. 2:23-24; Luke. 6:1-2). 20. Jesus withdrew Himself from Capernaum (12:15; Mark. 3:7-12). 21. The Pharisees were blamed by Jesus when they maligned Him (12:24-30; Mark. 3:22-27; Luke. 11:15-23). 22. Jesus’ mother and brothers stood outside, seeking to speak with Him (12:46-47; Mark. 3:31-32; Luke. 8:19-20). 23. The people in His own country were offended in Him (13:53-58; Mark. 6:1- 6). 24. John the Baptist was beheaded by Herod (14:1-12; Mark. 6:14-29; Luke. 9:7-9). 25. He refused to show a sign (16:1-4; Mark. 8:11-13). 26. Peter confessed that Jesus is Christ (16:13-16; Mark. 8:27-30). 27. He pointed that John the Baptist was the coming Elias (17:9-13; Mark. 9:9-13). 28. The disciples argued that who would be great in the kingdom of heaven (18:1-4; Mark. 9:33-37; Luke. 9:46-48). 29. He healed the wicked beyond Jordan (19:1-2; Mark. 10:1). 30. He put His hands on little children and blessed them (19:13-15; Mark. 10:13-16; Luke. 18:15-17). 31. The disciples argued that who is the great again (20:20-28; Mark. 10:35- 45). 32. He, sitting upon a colt, went in Jerusalem (21:1-10, 14-16; Mark. 11:1-10; Luke. 19:29-40; John. 12:12-19). 33. He cleansed the Holy Temple (21:12-13; Mark. 11:15-17; Luke. 19:45-46; John. 2:14-17). 34. He went out of the city into Bethany and there He passed the night (21:17; Mark. 11:11). 35. The chief priests and the elders questioned Jesus that by what authority He did these things (21:23-27; Mark. 11:27-33; Luke. 20:1-8). 36. He signed for Jerusalem (23:37-39; Luke. 13:34-35). 37. The council discussed to take Jesus (26:3-5; Mark. 14:1-2; Luke. 22:1-2). 38. A woman poured the ointment on the Lord’s head (26:6-13; Mark. 14:3-9; Luke. 7:36-50; John. 12:1-8). 39. Judas betrayed Jesus (26:14-16; Mark. 14:10-11; Luke. 22:3-6). 40. The feast of the Passover was prepared (26:17-19; Mark. 14:12-16; Luke. 22:7-13). 41. They ate the feast of the Passover (26:20-25; Mark. 14:17-21; Luke. 22:14-16, 21-23; John. 13:2, 21-30). 42. The Lord set the Lord’s Supper (26:26-29; Mark. 14:22-25; Luke. 22:19- 20). 43. They went out into the Mount of Olives (26:30; Mark. 14:26; Luke. 22:39). 44. He prayed three times in the garden of Gethsemane (26:36-46; Mark. 14:32-42; Luke. 22:40-46). 45. Judas led a great multitude to take Jesus (26:47-56; Mark. 14:43-52; Luke. 22:47-53; John. 18:1-12). 46. The council judged Jesus at night (26:57-68; Mark. 14:53-65; Luke. 22:66- 71; John. 18:13-14, 19-24). 47. Peter denied the Lord three times (26:69-75; Mark. 14:66-72; Luke. 22:54- 62; John. 18:15-18, 25-27). 48. The council delivered Jesus to Pontius Pilate (27:1-2; Mark. 15:1; Luke. 23:1-2; John. 18:28-32). 49. Pilate delivered Jesus to be crucified after he had judged Him (27:11-26; Mark. 15:2-25; Luke. 23:3-5, 13-25; John. 18:33-40; 19:4-16). 50. Soldiers mocked Jesus (27:27-31; Mark. 15:16-20; John. 19:1-3). 51. Simon, a man of Cyrene, was compelled to bear His cross (27:32; Mark. 15:21; Luke. 23:26). 52. He was crucified (27:33-49; Mark. 15:22-36; Luke. 23:33-38; John. 19:17- 24, 28-29). 53. The scene of His death (27:50-54; Mark. 15:37-39; Luke. 23:44-48; John. 19:30). 54. Women who were beholding under the cross (27:55-56; Mark. 15:40-41; Luke. 23:49; John. 19:25). 55. He was buried in the tomb of a rich man (27:57-61; Mark. 15:42-47; Luke. 23:50-56; John. 19:38-42). 56. The angel appeared and declared that Jesus rose from the dead (28:1-8; Mark. 16:1-8; Luke. 24:1-10). 57. Jesus appeared to women (28:9-10; Mark. 16:9; John. 20:14-18). 58. Jesus told His last instruction to the disciples (28:18-20; Mark. 16:15-18).

The Signs that Jesus Had Done I. The signs that are particularly recorded in the Book of Matthew: 1. He healed two blind men (9:27-31). 2. He cast out the demon and made the dumb speak (9:32-34). 3. He made Peter gain the tribute from the mouth of the fish (17:24-27). II. The harmonistic syllabus of the Gospels: 1. He cleansed the leper (8:1-4; Mark. 1:40-45; Luke. 5:12-16). 2. He healed the servant of the centurion (8:5-13; Luke. 7:1-10). 3. He healed Peter’s mother-in-law with the fever (8:14-15; Mark. 1:29-31; Luke. 4:38-39). 4. He cast out demons and healed all that were sick (8:16-17; Mark. 1:32-34; Luke. 4:40-41) 5. He calmed the winds and the sea (8:23-27; Mark. 4:35-41; Luke. 8:22-25). 6. He cast out the demons into the herd of swine (8:28-34; Mark. 5:1-20; Luke. 8:26-39). 7. He healed the paralytic in His own city (9:1-8; Mark. 2:1-12; Luke. 5:17-26). 8. He healed the woman who was diseased with an issue of blood and the daughter of a ruler (9:18-26; Mark. 5:21-43; Luke. 8:40-56). 9. He healed the man who had his hand withered on the Sabbath (12:9-14; Mark. 3:1-6; Luke. 6:6-11). 10. He cast out the demon and healed the blind and dumb (12:22-23; Luke. 11:14). 11. He filled five thousand men with five loaves and two fishes (14:13-21; Mark. 6:32-44; Luke. 9:10-17; John. 6:1-13). 12. He walked on the sea (14:22-23; Mark. 6:45-52; John. 6:6-21). 13. He healed all that were diseased in the land of Gennesaret (14:34-36; Mark. 6:53-56). 14. He healed the daughter of the woman of Canaan (15:21-28; Mark. 7:24- 30). 15. He healed men with all kinds of diseases along the Sea of Galilee (15:29- 31; Mark. 7:31-37). 16. He filled four thousand with seven loaves and a few fishes (15:32-39; Mark. 8:1-10). 17. He was transfigured on the mount (17:1-8; Mark. 9:2-8; Luke. 9:28-36). 18. He healed the child who was lunatic and sore vexed (17:14-21; Mark. 9:17-29; Luke. 9:38-42). 19. He healed the blind men outside of the city of Jericho (20:29-34; Mark. 10:46-52; Luke. 18:35-43). 20. He cursed the fig tree and it was immediately dried up (21:18-20; Mark. 11:12-14, 20-21).

The Teachings of Jesus I. The teachings that are particularly recorded in the Book of Mathew: 1. Concerning that citizens of the kingdom of heaven are salt and light (5:13- 16). 2. Concerning that the righteousness of citizens of the kingdom of heaven should exceed that of the Pharisees and the scribes (5:17-20). 3. Concerning hatred, adultery and oath (5:21-37). 4. Concerning alms, prayer and fasting (6:1-18). 5. Concerning money and worrying about food and drink and wear (6:19-34). 6. Concerning that everyone that asks receives (7:7-11). 7. Concerning two kinds of ways and gates (7:13-14). 8. Concerning the building and authority of the church (16:17-20). 9. Concerning how to gain those who have sinned against brothers (18:15- 20). 10. Concerning to forgive one’s brother until seventy times seven (18:21-22). 11. Concerning how to keep one’s virginity (19:10-12). 12. Concerning woes of the scribes and the Pharisees (23:13-36). II. The harmonistic syllabus of the Gospels: 1. Jesus talked about blessings on the mount (5:1-12; Luke. 6:20-23). 2. Concerning the love of enemies (5:38-48; Luke. 6:27-38). 3. Concerning that we should not to judge others (7:1-5; Luke. 6:39-42). 4. Concerning the principles for citizens of the kingdom of heaven to deal with men (7:12; Luke. 6:31). 5. Concerning how workers go out to work (10:5-42; Mark. 6:8-11; Luke. 9:3- 5). 6. Concerning that the Son of Man is Lord even of the Sabbath day (12:3-8; Mark. 2:25-28; Luke. 6:3-5). 7. Concerning that the blasphemy against the Spirit will not be forgiven men (12:31-32; Mark. 3:28-30). 8. Concerning that those who do the will of God are family members of the Lord (12:48-50; Mark. 3:33-35; Luke. 8:21). 9. Concerning the reason why He spoke to the masses with parables (13:10- 16, 34-35; Mark. 4:10-12, Luke. 8:9-10). 10. He refuted that the Pharisees had made the commandment of God of no effect by their tradition (15:1-20; Mark. 7:1-23). 11. Concerning to take heed and beware of the leaven of the Pharisees and the Sadducees (16:5-12; Mark. 8:14-21). 12. Concerning to take up one’s cross and to follow the Lord (16:24-27; Mark. 8:34-37; Luke. 9:23-25). 13. Concerning that one should not offend believers (18:5-11; Mark. 9:42). 14. Concerning that one should not put away his wife (19:3-9; Mark. 10:2-12). 15. Concerning the way to have eternal life (19:16-22; Mark. 10:17-22; Luke. 18:18-23). 16. Concerning that those who are greedy for money shall hardly enter into the kingdom of heaven (19:23-27; Mark. 10:23-27; Luke. 18:24-27). 17. Concerning the reward from the Lord (19:28-30; Mark. 10:28-31; Luke. 18:28-30). 18. Concerning prayer with faith (21:21-22; Mark. 11:22-24). 19. Concerning the tribute (22:15-22; Mark. 12:13-17; Luke. 20:20-26). 20. Concerning the resurrection (22:23-33; Mark. 12:18-27; Luke. 20:27-38). 21. Concerning the great commandment (22:34-40; Mark. 12:28-34; Luke. 10:25-28). 22. Concerning the relation between Christ and David (22:41-46; Mark. 12:35- 37; Luke. 20:41-44). 23. Concerning that we should not follow the behaviors of the Pharisees (23:1-12; Mark. 12:38-40; Luke. 20:45-47). 24. Concerning the day of the second coming of the Son of Man (24:36-44; Mark. 13:31-37; Luke. 21:34-36).

The Prophecies of Jesus I. The prophecies that are particularly recorded in the Book of Matthew: 1. He predicted that He would be crucified the fourth time (26:1-2). II. The harmonistic syllabus of the Gospels: 1. He predicted that He would suffer many things the first time and reproached Peter’s blocking Him from this (16:21-23; Mark. 8:31-33; Luke. 9:22). 2. He predicted that the Son of Man would come and men would foresee the scene of the kingdom (16:27-28; Mark. 8:38-9:1; Luke. 9:26-27). 3. He predicted that He would be crucified the second time (17:22-23; Mark. 9:30-32; Luke. 9:43-44). 4. He predicted that He would be crucified the third time and then He would rise (20:17-19; Mark. 10:32-34; Luke. 18:31-34). 5. He predicted that Jerusalem would become desolate (23: 37-39; Luke. 13:34-35). 6. He predicted that the Holy Temple would be destroyed (24:1-2; Mark. 13:1- 2; Luke. 21:5-6). 7. He predicted the signs before the end (24:3-14; Mark. 13:3-13; Luke. 21:7- 19). 8. He predicted the conditions of the Great Tribulation (24:15-26; Mark. 13:14- 23; Luke. 21:20-24). 9. He predicted the conditions of Christ’s second coming (24:27-31; Mark. 13:24-27; Luke. 21:25-28). 10. He predicted that Peter would deny Him three times (26:31-35; Mark. 14:27-31; Luke. 22:31-34; John. 13:36-38).

The Parables of Jesus I. The parables that are particularly recorded in the Book of Matthew: 1. The parable that we should not give what is holy to the dogs, nor cast our pearls before swine (7:6). 2. The parable and explanation of tares (13:24-30, 36-43). 3. The parable of the hidden treasure (13:44). 4. The parable of the pearl of great price (13:45-46). 5. The parable of the dragnet which is cast into sea to gather together of every kind (13:47-50). 6. The parable of a householder who brings out of his treasure things new and old (13:51-52). 7. The parable of faith as a mustard seed (17:20). 8. The parable of the servant who owed his lord ten thousand talents (18:23- 35). 9. The parable of laborers of the vineyard who receive wage (20:1-16). 10. The parable of two sons (21:28-32). 11. The parable of a wedding feast (22:1-14). 12. The parable of ten virgins (25:1-13). 13. The parable of division of sheep and goats (25:31-46). II. The harmonistic syllabus of the Gospels: 1. The parable of two kinds of fruit trees (7:15-23; Luke. 6:43-45). 2. The parable of two kinds of foundations (7:24-27; Luke. 6:46-49). 3. The parable of the new and the old that cannot be put together (9:14-17; Mark. 2:18-22; Luke. 5:33-39). 4. The parable that workers are sent to harvest (9:35-38; Luke. 10:2-3; John. 4:35). 5. The parable that one should first bind the strong and spoil his goods (12:25-30; Mark. 3:23-27; Luke. 11:17-23). 6. The parable of Jonas who was three days and nights in the whale’s belly (12:39-41; Luke. 11:29-30, 32). 7. The parable that the queen of the south came to hear the Wisdom of Solomon (12:42; Luke. 11:31). 8. The parable that the unclean spirit is gone out of a man and then takes with himself seven other spirits more wicked than himself (12:43-45; Luke. 11:24- 26). 9. The parable and explanation of the sewer (13:1-9; Mark. 4:1-9, 13-20; Luke. 8:4-8, 11-15). 10. The parable of the mustard seed (13:31-32; Mark. 4:30-32; Luke. 13:18-19). 11. The parable of the leaven (13:33; Luke. 13:20-21). 12. The parable of the lost sheep (18:12-14; Luke. 15:4-6). 13. The parable of the wicked vinedressers (21:33-46; Mark. 12:1-12; Luke. 20:9-19). 14. The parable of the fig tree whose branch is yet tender and which puts forth leaves (24:32-35; Mark. 13:28-31; Luke. 21:29-33). 15. The parable of the faithful servant and the evil servant (24:45-51; Luke. 12:39-42). 16. The parable that the talents are assigned to servants (25:14-30; Luke. 19:12-27).

── Caleb Huang《Christian Digest Bible Commentary Series》 Translated by Sharon Ren